Speaker of the House Paul Ryan has announced that he won’t be running in the next election and will be retiring in January, the New York Times reported Wednesday morning. His reasoning for this decision is that he wants to focus on being a dad and a husband and he feels ready to leave after achieving his goal for tax reform. According to Axios, Ryan’s decision was in the works since Politico reported in December “that he saw his ‘wild Washington journey coming to an end.’"
Serving as speaker has been a great honor. Now, with all three of my kids in their teens, I am ready to set new priorities. I intend to serve my full term as I was elected to do. But I will be retiring in January, leaving this majority in good hands and with a bright future. pic.twitter.com/LfyZtZOIn4
— Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) April 11, 2018
What does this mean for House Republicans, though? There is a definite scramble to fill Speaker Ryan’s seat. The New York Times reports that House majority leader, Kevin McCarthy and House majority whip, Steve Scalise, will probably be the ones to fight for the seat.
What does this mean to House Democrats? Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), House Democratic leader says in her statement, “The Speaker has been an avid advocate for his point of view and for the people of his district. Despite our differences, I commend his steadfast commitment to our country.”
As for New York Senator, Chuck Schumer, he is asking Mr. Ryan to spend the rest of his time in office to become more bipartisan. He urges, “With his newfound political freedom, I hope the Speaker uses his remaining time in Congress to break free from the hard-right factions of his caucus that have kept Congress from getting real things done. If he’s willing to reach across the aisle, he’ll find Democrats willing and eager to work with him.”
Paul Ryan’s retirement is just one of many house republicans retirements. His retirement also kicked off a roll of republican retirements including, announced just one hour after Mr. Ryan’s retirement, Rep. Dennis Ross, Republican of Florida.
The open position for speaker could mean a turn to the majority right, or be an opportunity for the Democrats to swoop in for majority. Want your voice to be heard in these elections? Get out there and vote!