Texas Rep. Mike Conaway announced July 31 that his eighth term in Congress will be his last.

A conservative Republican, Conaway represents 29 counties in Texas. He is the ranking member on the House Agriculture Committee and also serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. He is an Army veteran.

“I am proud of my career in public service,” Conaway said in announcing his retirement. “As a CPA, I think through things in terms of numbers. Including my time in the military, I will have spent 34% of my adult life in public service.”

Conaway is not the only agriculture leader retiring at the end of this Congress. Kansas Sen. Pat Roberts, chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee, will not seek re-election in 2020.

House Agriculture Committee Chairman Rep. Collin C. Peterson, D-Minn., also a CPA, wished Conaway and his wife, Suzanne, well in retirement and pledged to continue working with Conaway through the 116^th Congress.

“He has been a steadfast champion for America’s farmers and ranchers and a fighter for the interests of West Texas and the 11^th District,” Peterson said.

Conaway thanked those who have helped him during his service.

“I thank each and every person who has given me a helping hand during this journey, including voters, staff, donors, volunteers and friends,” he said. “I could not have done the job I have done without each of you.”

What others are saying

Conaway was one of the lawmakers who reached a farm bill deal with President Donald Trump late last year. He supported tighter Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program requirements and looser farm subsidy limits. – Politico

Conaway has announced frustration with serving in the minority and joins four other Republican lawmakers announcing retirements. – The Hill

In announcing his retirement, Conaway lamented how “intense” partisanship has become in Washington. His district is solidly Republican, but his retirement is a major blow to the state’s clout within the Republican conference. – Texas Tribune

Political science professor says Conaway is a “workhorse, rather than show horse.” He led the House’s investigation into Russia’s interference in the 2016 presidential election. In 2008, he uncovered an embezzlement plot in the National Republican Congressional Committee. – Marfa Public Radio