Congressman Chuck Fleischmann issued the following statement on Speaker Paul Ryan’s announcement that he will not seek re-election in November:
“I want to thank Speaker Ryan for his patriotic service to the Republican Party and in the United States House of Representatives.
During his almost 20 years in the House, Speaker Ryan has epitomized what it means to lead our country forward with strong conservative values and commitment to a limited government.
"Throughout my time in the House, I have come to know Speaker Ryan as a friend and colleague. Since his time as Chairman of Ways and Means, his tireless work to provide Americans with a fairer and simpler tax code, and success in this endeavor, will continue as his legacy in both the House and homes of the American people. I wish my friend well in his retirement as he enjoys more time in the best role – that of a husband and father.”
Senator Lamar Alexander said, "Paul Ryan has performed a difficult job with dignity, good humor and skill. His leadership made possible the two most important laws of the last Congress--fixing No Child Left Behind and 21st Century Cures-- and the most important law of this Congress, the first major tax reform passed in 31 years. I hope we have not seen the last of his leadership in public life."