The 2002 United States House of Representatives elections were held on 5 November 2002, in the middle of President George W. Bush's first term. Although it was a midterm election under a Republican president, the Republican Party gained a net eight seats, solidifying their majority. Some speculate that this may have been due to increased support for the President's party in the wake of the September 11 attacks. This is the only midterm election since 1978 which left the President's party in control of the House.