In a stunning move, House Speaker John Boehner said he will step down Oct. 30.
"I will resign my Speakership and my seat in Congress on October 30," Boehner wrote in a news release.
Boehner also wrote, " My mission every day is to fight for a smaller, less costly, and more accountable government. Over the last five years, our majority has advanced conservative reforms that will help our children and their children. I am proud of what we have accomplished."
Boehner said his plan had been to serve as Speaker until the end of last year, but he stayed on to provide, "continuity to the Republican Conference and the House."
He explained, "It is in my view, however, that prolonged leadership turmoil would do irreparable damage to the institution."
Rep. John Mica said Friday that Boehner "just does not want to become the issue. Some people have tried to make him the issue both in Congress and outside."
Colorado lawmakers quickly started responding:
The Speaker of the House is 2nd in line to the presidency after the VP, and once the position is vacant the House will elect a new one
— Jared Polis (@jaredpolis) September 25, 2015
Senator Cory Gardner (R-CO), released a statement that said, "John Boehner is a devoted family man, an exceptionally talented public servant, and one of the proudest Americans I know. One of twelve children, he went from sweeping the floors at his father’s Cincinnati bar to walking the halls of the Capitol as the highest ranking official in Congress."
"He has lived the American dream, and been an inspiration to many, including myself," Gardner wrote. "From my time in the House to the current day, I am proud to consider John Boehner a friend and ally. I will miss his steady leadership — our country is better off for his service."
Boehner took over the speakership in January 2011. He represents the Eighth Congressional District of Ohio. he was elected to his 13th term in November 2014.
Get breaking news on your phone, download the free 7NEWS app for iPhone/iPads, Android and Kindle. And follow us on Facebook, Twitterand Instagram.
