WASHINGTON, DC - House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Greg Walden (R-OR) today issued the following statement regarding House Speaker Paul Ryan’s (R-WI) decision to retire at the end of his term.
“Two years ago, House Republicans turned to Paul for leadership at a time when we needed it most. The grace and intelligence with which he met that challenge was inspiring, but not surprising to those of us lucky to call Paul a friend. From a Tortilla Coast waiter to the Budget and Ways and Means Committee Chairmanships to the Speaker’s office, Paul has stayed the same good-hearted man who puts the best interests of the American people first in all things.
“Paul and I came to Congress at the same time and I’ve known Paul Ryan, the man, in a number of roles - as a representative, a chairman, and as our speaker. But there’s one role that’s always been the most important part of his life: being the father of Samuel, Elizabeth, and Charles and husband to Janna. As Paul prepares to leave elected office, I know he will cherish more time with his wife and children. I thank him for his career of service and wish Paul the best as he moves on to this new chapter of life."
