WASHINGTON (AP) - House Speaker Paul Ryan announced Wednesday he will retire rather than seek another term in Congress, sending ripples through Washington.

The Wisconsin Republican cast the decision to end his 20-year career as a personal one, saying he did not want his children growing up with a “weekend dad.” Claiming he's accomplished “a heckuva lot,” he said the party can point to strong gains as lawmakers campaign ahead of November elections. A self-styled budget expert, Ryan had made tax cuts a centerpiece of his legislative agenda, and a personal cause, and Congress delivered on that late last year.

“I have given this job everything I have,” he said. “We're going to have a great record to run on.”

Nebraska's Congressional Delegation weighed in on the big decision on Twitter.


Serving as speaker has been a great honor. Now, with all three of my kids in their teens, I am ready to set new priorities. I intend to serve my full term as I was elected to do. But I will be retiring in January, leaving this majority in good hands and with a bright future. pic.twitter.com/LfyZtZOIn4

- Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) April 11, 2018



Thank you to @SpeakerRyan for his service to our country and his great work on the #TaxCutsandJobsAct!

- Gov. Pete Ricketts (@GovRicketts) April 11, 2018



It has been an honor to serve alongside my friend and colleague, @SpeakerRyan. His leadership was paramount to deliver tax reform to the American people and I wish the best for him as he chooses to leave Congress at the end of this term.

- Rep. Adrian Smith (@RepAdrianSmith) April 11, 2018



A great leader, a true visionary, a faithful public servant, and my friend. You will be missed, @SpeakerRyan. pic.twitter.com/IL0qdnytRu

- Rep. Don Bacon (@RepDonBacon) April 11, 2018



Speaker Paul Ryan's best line: "I just want to be a dad again." @SpeakerRyan

- Jeff Fortenberry (@JeffFortenberry) April 11, 2018