Sep 16, 2021 - Politics & Policy

GOP Rep. Gonzalez retires in face of Trump-backed primary

Julia Sclafani

Gonzalez, wearing a suit, is speaking into a microphone while standing outdoors. Other politicians stand in the background. — Ohio Rep. Anthony Gonzalez (R) Photographer: Stefani Reynolds/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Ohio Rep. Anthony Gonzalez (R) announced his retirement on Thursday, declining to run against a Trump-backed primary challenger in 2022.

Why it matters: Gonzalez has suffered politically since siding with House Democrats to impeach the 45th president after the Capitol riot.

Details: The two-term congressman largely supported Trump's agenda — up until the former president tried to block the election certification, per the New York Times.

Gonzalez is one of 10 House Republicans who voted for impeachment.
The Ohio Republican Party censured Gonzalez and called on him to resign.
Trump, who called Gonzalez a "sellout," endorsed GOP challenger and former White House aide Max Miller in February.

What he's saying: “Please know that every word has meant the world to me and given me hope that the chaotic political environment that currently infects our country will only be temporary," Gonzalez said in announcing his retirement.

"While my desire to build a fuller family life is at the heart of my decision, it is also true that the current state of our politics, especially many of the toxic dynamics inside our own party, is a significant factor in my decision," he added.

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GOP Rep. Gonzalez retires in face of Trump-backed primary

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