PressTV-US House Speaker Ryan to retire, in blow to Republicans

US House of Representatives Speaker Paul Ryan, dealing a blow to the Republican Party just months ahead of pivotal congressional elections, said on Wednesday he will not seek re-election to Congress in November and will relinquish his leadership post at the start of 2019.

Ryan, who portrayed his decision as one driven by wanting to spend more time with his family, has had a rocky relationship with Republican President Donald Trump. Asked to what degree Trump’s presidency influenced his decision not to seek re-election, Ryan said, “Not at all.”

After months of speculation that he would retire, the 48-year-old Republican speaker announced his decision, setting up a struggle for succession among House Republicans amid mounting concern about the party’s prospects in November, when Democrats are seeking to regain control of Congress from Trump’s fellow Republicans.

“I am announcing today that this year will be my last one in the…

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