(Glenbeulah) Congressman Glenn Grothman says Speaker of the House Paul Ryan’s decision to not seek another term will help Republicans in the short term. Grothman says if Ryan was going to stay it would have meant mounting a reelection campaign, but instead he can focus on helping Republicans maintain a majority in the House. Grothman says while he hates to lose a colleague, he’s looking forward to serving eight more months with Ryan in Congress.
“This morning, I sat on a conference call with the Wisconsin delegation, where Speaker Ryan told us that he would not be running for reelection.”
“I believe he will be forever known as the family first Speaker.”
“It took over a month to convince Paul to accept the job as Speaker, since he was concerned that he would be away from his family.”
“Not surprisingly, he will be leaving his position as Speaker after two and a half years, in order to spend more time with his wife and children.”
“I first met Paul at GOP events in Wisconsin and could not be more impressed with his enthusiasm, sincerity and knowledge.”
“As Speaker, he ushered in a historic tax bill, something that has not been done in about 30 years!”
“I am happy for him and his family.”
“I look forward to working with Paul as he continues to be a part of the discourse in Washington and look forward to continuing to seek his advice and counsel in the future.”
A native of Janesville, Ryan said he has no regrets despite taking the Speaker’s job reluctantly in 2015. He said he’s proud of the accomplishments of the Republican-led House, including the big tax cut bill that was approved last year. The Wisconsin Republican is only 48. He said he wants to spend more time with his kids and does not want to continue being a “weekend dad.” Ryan has served in the House since 1999. He was the Republican vice presidential nominee in 2012. Mitt Romney lost that race to President Barack Obama.
Meanwhile, Governor Scott Walker says he respects Ryan’s decision, but that the southeast Wisconsin representative will be missed.
Possible Republican candidates are scrambling. Some likely candidates include former Republican National Committee Chairman Reince Priebus and Assembly Speaker Robin Vos. Another name being brought up is University of Wisconsin System Regent Bryan Steel, who is a member of a powerful Janesville political family with close ties to Ryan. Political analysts are considering the once Republican stronghold a toss-up race. Ryan says he will not endorse a candidate in the G-O-P primary.
