BREAKING: Top House Republican Announces Retirement From Congress

On Tuesday, former acting Speaker of the House Patrick McHenry (R-NC) announced that he will not be seeking reelection next year.

"I will be retiring from Congress at the end of my current term," McHenry said in a statement. "This is not a decision I come to lightly, but I believe there is a season for everything and - for me - this season has come to an end."

"Past, present, and future, the House of Representatives is the center of our American republic. Through good and bad, during the highest of days and the lowest, and from proud to infamous times, the House is the venue for our nation’s disagreements bound up in our hopes for a better tomorrow. It is a truly special place and—as an American—my service here is undoubtedly my proudest," he said. "Since being sworn in January 3rd, 2005, I have worked every day to uphold the Constitution and the system of government our founders so wisely created."

"Throughout my years in the House, I’ve mentored and been mentored. I’ve learned from many, been taught lessons by others. I am proud to have been a legislator for nearly twenty years. The craft of legislating is an art and I’m thankful for all the members and staff who helped me hone that craft," McHenry continued. "There has been a great deal of handwringing and ink spilled about the future of this institution because some—like me—have decided to leave. Those concerns are exaggerated. I’ve seen a lot of change over twenty years. I truly feel this institution is on the verge of the next great turn. Whether it's 1974, 1994, or 2010, we’ve seen the House evolve over time. Evolutions are often lumpy and disjointed, but at each stage, new leaders emerge. There are many smart and capable members who remain, and others are on their way. I’m confident the House is in good hands."

McHenry, who is the current chair of the House Financial Services Committee, was first elected in 2005 and caught national attention after he became acting speaker following Rep. Kevin McCarthy's (R-CA) ouster from the post. McHenry gave up his powers as acting speaker after Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA) was elected to the speakership after weeks of negotiations amongst House Republicans.

Read McHenry's full announcement below:

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