House Speaker John Boehner surprised colleagues today by announcing plans to resign the post in October.

Republican factions have been warring over several issues, including on whether to force a government shutdown to stop federal money to Planned Parenthood.

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Significance for Arkansas? Mostly in that the delegation has four votes to cast on the next speaker. House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy is mentioned as a potential candidate for speaker. Who knows. Maybe that could, in turn, present an opening for Majority Whip Steve Scalise to move up. Rep. Steve Womack is a deputy whip and active player in House politics. So there’s that. 

Womack issued a statement on the news:

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John Boehner is a great man with arguably the most difficult job in public service, and in spite of that, he has led with distinction and compassion during a period of great difficulty. He loves our members, the institution, and our country. It shows. I thank him for doing this tireless job and wish him the best in his retirement.

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