Ohio Representative Bill Johnson, a Republican stalwart, declared his retirement from the House on Tuesday. Johnson revealed his decision via X (Twitter), stating that he had accepted an offer to become the President of Youngstown State University, signaling the end of his congressional career after serving seven terms.

“After much thought and prayerful deliberation, I have accepted the offer to lead Youngstown State University and will not be seeking an 8th term in Congress,” Johnson announced on the social media platform.

While Johnson plans to continue his congressional duties for the next few months, his spokesman confirmed that he intends to step down from Congress by March 31, though the exact date remains unannounced. Notably, this timing could see Johnson still in office during crucial moments such as the expiration of federal government funding on January 19 and February 2.

The filing deadline for congressional candidates is set for December 20, with party primaries scheduled for March 19. The two-year term starting in January 2025 will be contested, and it will be up to Ohio Governor Mike DeWine to decide whether and when to hold a special election to fill the vacant seat for the remainder of 2024.

Representing Ohio’s 6th Congressional District, which encompasses Mahoning County and large portions of eastern and southeastern Ohio, Johnson has been a prominent figure aligned with former President Donald Trump. He notably voted to overturn the results of the 2020 election.

In a statement, Johnson outlined his plans for the future, expressing his commitment to Youngstown State University and emphasizing that his political history would not influence his decisions in his new role.

The Youngstown State University board approved Johnson’s appointment with an annual salary of $410,000, expecting him to assume his responsibilities by March 15, according to the contract. Johnson assured that he would resign from his congressional position before assuming the presidency at YSU.

“My history in politics will not be reflected in the decisions that I make for YSU or its students,” Johnson affirmed. “I am committed to an inclusive and respectful environment at the university, regardless of political, religious, or personal affiliations.”

The 69-year-old Congressman, a former businessman with a background in information technology and electronics, and an Air Force veteran, was elected to Congress in 2010. Johnson currently holds positions on the House committees on Energy and Commerce and the Budget, along with three Energy and Commerce subcommittees.

Johnson’s retirement follows closely on the heels of Democratic Representative Anna Eshoo’s decision not to seek reelection, marking a notable shift in the landscape of Congress with two seasoned lawmakers exiting the stage. The announcements add to the growing list of House members from both parties who have chosen not to seek reelection in 2024.