Patrick McHenry, former temporary Speaker, to retire from House
Rep. Patrick McHenry Announces Retirement from Congress
Rep. -vacate-capitol-hideaway-office” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Patrick McHenry (R-NC), who served as temporary House speaker during a leadership fight this fall, has made the decision not to seek re-election in 2024.
“I will be retiring from Congress at the end of my current term. 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,” McHenry said in a statement.
A lawmaker known for his distinctive bowties, McHenry has been a member of the House since 2005. He has risen through the ranks and became the chairman of the House Financial Services Committee.
McHenry is seen as a close ally to former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) and played a key role in steering debt ceiling talks earlier this year.
After the House voted to remove McCarthy from the speakership in October, McHenry was chosen to serve as speaker pro tempore.
During the period it took for the chamber to select Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA) as the new speaker, there was consideration but ultimately a rejection of the idea to give McHenry more power beyond presiding over debates and votes. However, McHenry did order former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-MD) to vacate their hideaway U.S. Capitol offices.
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McHenry is now one of over two dozen House members who have announced their decision not to seek re-election in the upcoming year. Another lawmaker considering an exit from the House is McCarthy.
In his statement on Tuesday, McHenry expressed gratitude to his staff, constituents, and family for their support. He also expressed pride in his work as a congressman and optimism for the future of the House.
“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,” McHenry said.
“I’ve seen a lot of change over twenty years,” he added. “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.”
How has Patrick McHenry advocated for limited government, fiscal responsibility, and free-market principles throughout his career?
S-pelosi-to-vacate-capitol-hideaway-office” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>order Speaker Nancy Pelosi to vacate her office and return it to the House Administration Committee.
Throughout his career, McHenry has been a staunch conservative and has advocated for limited government, fiscal responsibility, and free-market principles. He has been a vocal critic of excessive regulation and has worked to promote economic growth and job creation.
As chairman of the House Financial Services Committee, McHenry has played a crucial role in shaping financial policy and oversight. He has been a strong advocate for small businesses and has worked to address issues related to banking, housing, and consumer protection.
McHenry’s retirement announcement comes as a surprise to many in the political world. He is widely respected on both sides of the aisle for his knowledge and expertise in financial matters and his ability to work across party lines to find common ground.
Many of McHenry’s colleagues have expressed their gratitude for his service and his dedication to the American people. House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy praised McHenry for his work as temporary speaker and his commitment to conservative principles.
“Patrick McHenry has been a dedicated public servant and a valued member of our Republican team. His leadership as temporary speaker during a challenging time for our conference was invaluable,” McCarthy said in a statement. “I am grateful for his friendship and his unwavering commitment to the conservative cause.”
McHenry’s retirement will leave a void in the Republican Party and in the House Financial Services Committee. His departure will also create an open seat in North Carolina’s 10th Congressional District, which is expected to attract a number of Republican candidates.
As McHenry looks to the future, he has expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve the people of North Carolina and the United States. He has pledged to continue working on issues that are important to him and to support conservative candidates who share his values.
“While I will no longer serve in Congress, I will always be a voice for limited government, individual liberty, and free-market principles,” McHenry said in his statement. “I look forward to supporting conservative candidates and causes that will advance these important principles.”
McHenry’s retirement marks the end of an era in Congress. His leadership and expertise will be missed, but his impact will continue to be felt in the years to come. As he transitions to the next chapter of his life, McHenry leaves behind a legacy of service and a commitment to the conservative values that have defined his career.
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