Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) is ending speculation about his future.
In an op-ed published by The Wall Street Journal on Wednesday, McCarthy shared he is leaving the House at the end of this year.
He touted what he said were Republicans’ accomplishments during their time in the majority and stated, “No matter the odds, or personal cost, we did the right thing. That may seem out of fashion in Washington these days, but delivering results for the American people is still celebrated across the country.”
“It is in this spirit that I have decided to depart the House at the end of this year to serve America in new ways. I know my work is only getting started,” he continued. “I will continue to recruit our country’s best and brightest to run for elected office. The Republican Party is expanding every day, and I am committed to lending my experience to support the next generation of leaders.”
Finally, McCarthy wrote, “I never could have imagined the journey when I first threw my hat into the ring. I go knowing I left it all on the field—as always, with a smile on my face. And looking back, I wouldn’t have had it any other way. Only in America.”
His decision comes three months after the historic vote to oust him as speaker.
Speculation McCarthy might be leaving Congress received new oxygen after he posted a picture standing in what appeared to be a relatively bare office.
The decision will further shrink the Republican majority in the House.
Last week, lawmakers voted to expel Rep. George Santos (R-N.Y.) after a scorching House Ethics Committee report.