Speaker John Boehner announces resignation

(MyFoxBoston.com) - Speaker of the House John Boehner announced Friday he will resign from Congress at the end of October.

Boehner was front and center Thursday when Pope Francis addressed Congress, and though he said he was emotional, that did not directly influence his decision.

Boehner planned to announce at the end of the year his resignation, but decided to do so Friday.

"Today's the day I'm going to do this. Simple as that," he said.

He first told his staff Friday morning. Rep. John Mica said Friday that Boehner "just does not want to become the issue. Some people have tried to make him the issue both in Congress and outside."

Boehner said this is the best decision for the country. He has had a contentious relationship with President Barack Obama since he took office.

"It's been an honor to serve in this institution," he said.

Boehner represents Ohio and the Republican has served Congress since 1991. Boehner took over the speakership in January 2011.

Cox Media Group