Will Paul Ryan’s Retirement Negatively Impact the Republican Party?

“I have shattered every fundraising record any Speaker has ever set. There is nobody who’s come close to being able to raise the kinds of funds that I have, and still can raise, for this majority.”

However, despite Ryan’s contributions to the Republican Party, members of the GOP still retain concerns about the potential negative aftereffects of his upcoming retirement. Some Republicans have opined that the House Speaker’s decision to not seek reelection may prompt additional retirements within the GOP. Other members of the party worry that Ryan’s retirement may divert attention from the Republican Party’s policy plans and trigger infighting.

Texas Republican strategist Matt Mackowiak expressed some of the aforementioned concerns:

“I wouldn’t be surprised if you had five or 10 more retirements. Filing deadlines are coming up in the next 60 days. Decisions [will] be made.”

What Does the Rest of America Think Regarding Ryan’s Retirement?

Following the announcement that Ryan would not seek reelection, reactions came in a mixed bag. Some people gave applause, while others appeared teary-eyed. Nevertheless, each person has their own thoughts and ideas regarding the House Speaker’s recently announced decision. Readers of The Hill weighed in with their opinions, as well: