Utah Republican Rep. Chris Stewart submitted his letter of resignation from the House of Representatives on Tuesday, citing his wife’s health concerns as the cause of his abrupt departure.
According to The Salt Lake Tribune, multiple sources have confirmed Stewart’s impending resignation, claiming that it was in order to look after his wife’s well-being in light of an undisclosed medical malady.
Stewart, a 62-year-old politician who recently secured his sixth term in office, has been a prominent figure in Utah’s political landscape. His strong Republican support and wide margin of victory in the last election reflect his popularity among constituents. Serving on the House Appropriations Committee and the House Intelligence Committee, Stewart has been actively involved in shaping legislation and representing the interests of his district.
The resignation of Stewart, even if temporary, will have implications for the delicate balance of power in the House of Representatives. With the GOP already holding a slim majority, his departure will further reduce their numbers, potentially affecting the dynamics of upcoming legislative decisions. The loss of a seasoned representative like Stewart leaves a void that will need to be filled through a special primary and general election, the dates of which will be determined by Utah Republican Gov. Spencer Cox.
More cynical observers have speculated about Stewart’s future political ambitions, with some suggesting that he had been considering a run for the Senate in 2024. If true, his resignation from the House could be seen as a strategic move to focus on a potential Senate campaign. Notably, this would not be the first time a Utah congressman has resigned midterm, as former Rep. Jason Chaffetz followed a similar path in 2017.
Chaffetz, who is familiar with the challenges of public service, spoke highly of Stewart’s character and dedication to his country. Praising him for his integrity and patriotism, Chaffetz’s words reflect the respect and admiration Stewart has earned throughout his political career.
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