Radel resigns to state and national officials
To the editor:
(The following is a letter that was sent to Speaker of the House John Boehner. He also sent a shorter version to Gov. Rick Scott.)
It has been an honor to serve my neighbors, friends and family of Florida’s 19th Congressional District.
Regardless of some personal struggles in 2013, this year has already been tremendously positive as I focus on my health, family and faith.
Unfortunately, some of my struggles had serious consequences. While I have dealt with those issues on a personal level, it is my belief that professionally I cannot fully and effectively serve as a United States Representative to the place I love and call home, Southwest Florida.
I hereby submit this letter of resignation as the Representative of the 19th District of Florida, effective 6:30 p.m. (EST) Jan. 27, 2014. Please find the attached letter I have submitted to Governor Rick Scott.
On a personal note, Mr. Speaker, to you and our colleagues from both parties, I thank you. Thank you for the tremendous support and encouragement. Oftentimes in Congress, our personal relationships and successes are overshadowed by intense but meaningful and necessary debate. However, I leave the House of Representatives with friendships and memories of great men and women dedicated to helping and improving the lives of our fellow Americans.
As an eternal optimist, I know there are great things in store for our country when we find ways to work together. Whether it is as a father, a husband, or in any future endeavor, I hope to contribute what I can to better our country in the years to come.
Trey Radel
Member of Congress