ST. GEORGE — Utah Republican Chris Stewart confirmed Wednesday he is resigning from the U.S. House of Representatives.
“It has been one of the great honors of my life to serve the good people of Utah in Congress,” Stewart said in a statement released Wednesday morning. “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.”
Stewart’s statements confirmed initial reports that he was considering leaving Congress due to matters related to his wife’s health. Specific details regarding those “health concerns” were not provided.
As previously reported, Gov. Spencer Cox has seven days to set times for a primary and special election to replace Stewart. Under Utah law, these dates coincide with municipal primary and general election dates unless the Legislature appropriates funds for a different election date.
While the resignation leaves Utah with three representatives in Congress, on the national level it makes the slim Republican control of Congress a little slimmer at just four seats left. However, his departure is not expected to affect House Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s ability to steer a tight Republican majority.
Stewart, a U.S. Air Force veteran and author, was first elected in 2012 and collaborated with Utah’s Elizabeth Smart on a memoir about her kidnapping. The 62-year-old Stewart was raised as a potential nominee for U.S. director of national intelligence during former President Donald Trump’s administration. Little is known about Stewart’s wife’s health.
Last year, in an interview with radio host Hugh Hewitt, Stewart demurred when asked about his future political plans, specifically whether he would challenge U.S. Sen. Mitt Romney or Cox, both moderates.
“My family and I have been very blessed by this experience,” Stewart said in his statement. “Thank you to all those who have supported and sacrificed to help us. The fight goes on. God bless all of you, and God bless our nation.”
Members of Utah’s congressional delegation and state government issued comments following Stewart’s announcement.
Sen. Mike Lee
“With a heavy heart, I bid farewell to my esteemed colleague, Representative Chris Stewart. Representative Stewart is a true statesman who has consistently demonstrated dedication and integrity while tirelessly fighting for the interests and well-being of his constituents … We owe him a debt of gratitude for his unwavering dedication, principled leadership and, and tireless advocacy for the American people.”
https://t.co/7rKZ80JtTd pic.twitter.com/c78Dmk3qTU
— Mike Lee (@SenMikeLee) May 31, 2023
Sen. Mitt Romney
“Congressman Stewart has dutifully served our state and Utahns in the Second Congressional District for more than a decade. A former Air Force pilot, Chris has consistently worked to safeguard the role Utah plays in our country’s national defense. He has been a terrific partner on advancing Utah priorities — advocating for greater local input in public lands management and legislation to protect the Great Salt Lake. Ann and I are praying for Chris, Evie, and the Stewart family.”
Reps. John Curtis, Burgess Owens and Blake Moore issued a joint statement.
“We are deeply saddened by the announcement of our dear friend, Rep. Chris Stewart. Throughout our time in this institution, he has warmly embraced each of us and played a vital role in our collective achievements for the people of Utah. As the Dean of our delegation, Chris has been an invaluable source of guidance, and we know that his wisdom will remain accessible during the remainder of his time here and after his departure. Utah is losing a dedicated public servant, and his presence will be greatly missed within these chambers. As he transitions to prioritizing time with Evie, we extend our thoughts and support to him and his entire family.”
Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes
“Chris Stewart is a dear friend and patriot who has represented our state and served our nation honorably, passionately and effectively in Congress … Chris is an officer and gentleman who has sacrificed much to serve during his career in the Armed Services and in public office. While we will miss his leadership in DC, I’m so glad he will have more time now to focus on (his wife) Evie and his family.”
Chris Stewart is a dear friend and patriot who has represented our state and served our nation honorably, passionately, and effectively in Congress. pic.twitter.com/CEJB5tVGt0
— Sean Reyes (@SeanReyesUT) May 31, 2023
Gov. Spencer Cox
“Rep. Chris Stewart is an exceptional American, effective conservative voice and good friend. We’re grateful for his considerable leadership and his unwavering commitment to representing our state. We honor his service and wish him and his family all the best.”
Utah Sen. President J. Stewart Adams
“I appreciate (Rep. Chris Stewart’s) service, dedication and work to represent Utah’s values and interests in Washington, D.C. His strong leadership in Congress will be missed. My prayers are with Rep. Stewart, his wife and his family at this time.”
The Associated Press contributed to this story.
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