BoehnerWASHINGTON (AP) – Several of the Republican Party’s candidates for president are cheering the decision of House Speaker John Boehner to resign as they rally conservative voters in Washington.
 
     Speaking a meeting of evangelical voters, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio says, “I’m not here to bash anyone, but the time has come to turn the page.”
 
     Real estate mogul Donald Trump says Republican congressional leaders like Boehner are “babies.”
 
     The billionaire suggested that while some people may like Boehner personally, “we want people who are going to get it done.”
 
     The forum has become something of a victory lap for conservative activists, as the 2016 candidates celebrate Boehner’s departure by lashing out at congressional Republicans for not fighting hard enough for conservative priorities.

Congressman Kevin Cramer released the following statement after Speaker of the House John Boehner announced today his decision to resign from Congress at the end of October. 

 John Boehner announced his resignation with the same class indicative of his term as Speaker. With humility and grace he exits public life with more concern for his colleagues, his country and the institution he has served so well than he has for himself. He set an example for all of us that few of us are capable of matching. His selflessness is rare among his friends and nonexistent among his critics. I am better for knowing John Boehner and the House will have to settle for someone less courageous and steady than he is. But the House of Representatives will heal and so will those of us feeling a little sad today. John reminded us of what service means when he prayed the Prayer of St. Francis at Conference this morning. Kris joins me in thanking our friend and colleague John Boehner for all he does for us and North Dakota and the nation.

President Barack Obama is reacting to the news that House Speaker John Boehner (BAY’-nur) is stepping down, calling Boehner a “good man” and a “patriot.” He also says Boehner has been someone who understands that “you don’t get 100 percent of what you want” and that you “have to work with people who you disagree with.”

Earlier…

  WASHINGTON (AP) – In a stunning move, House Speaker John Boehner (BAY’-nur) has told Republicans that he will step down at the end of October, giving up his leadership post and his seat in Congress in the face of hardline conservative opposition.
 
     The 13-term Ohio Republican shocked his GOP caucus early this morning when he informed them of his decision in a closed-door session.
 
     Florida Rep. John Mica says Boehner “just does not want to become the issue.”
 
     Conservatives have demanded that any legislation to keep the government operating past next Wednesday’s midnight deadline strip Planned Parenthood of his funds, a stance opposed by more pragmatic lawmakers. The dispute had threatened Boehner’s speakership and roiled the GOP caucus.
 
     Boehner took over the speakership in January 2011.