COLUMBUS, Ohio (WTVN) -- The Speaker of the Ohio House of Representatives says he will step down from his position as House Speaker, and give up his seat in the House of Representatives, May 1. An aide to Cliff Rosenberger emailed a press release Tuesday night, containing this prepared statement.
"As I have said previously, I am aware of a federal inquiry being conducted regarding things I may have been involved in. First and foremost, I believe that all of my actions as Speaker have been ethical and lawful."
Rosenberger adds, he understands the nature of the inquiry has the potential to be very demanding and intensive, and it could take months or eve years to resolve. Rosenberger, a Clinton County Republican, says Ohioans deserve elected leaders who "are able to devote their full and undivided attention to these matters." He adds, he believes the institution of the Ohio House of Representatives is far more important than one person.
Speaker Pro Tem Kirk Schuring, a Canton Republican, will temporarily assume Rosenberger's duties until the House of Representatives elects a replacement.