Republican Congressman Chris Stewart resigns to care for ailing wife

Voters in Utah's Second District will elect his replacement in the House of Representatives by special ballot.

House Republican Rep. Chris Stewart announced that he is resigning to care for his wife, who has been dealing with some health issues recently. His replacement will come from a special vote of the Utah Second District he represents.

Since 2012 in Congress

The legislator, who has been in Congress since 2012, stated that he will not leave abruptly and "an orderly transition can be guaranteed." His office released a statement that he later uploaded to his Twitter account.

It has been one of the great honors of my life to serve the good people of Utah in Congress,” said Rep. Stewart. “My wife and I have made so many dear friends and memories throughout our journey. I can say with pride that I have been an effective leader for my beloved home state, and I’m honored to have played an important role in guiding our nation through some troubled times. But my wife’s health concerns have made it necessary that I retire from Congress after an orderly transition can be ensured.