WASHINGTON, D.C. – Ways and Means Committee Chairman Kevin Brady (R-TX) released the following statement regarding the announcement by House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Ed Royce (R-CA) that he will retire from the House at the conclusion of the 115th Congress:

“I’d like to congratulate Chairman Royce on his over two decades of distinguished public service to our country. While serving together in Congress, I have always appreciated Ed’s friendship, his commitment to his constituents, and his bold leadership on issue after issue.

“Ed always stands up for what is right.  He is an extremely effective leader on trade issues and has worked hard to deliver strong trade agreements that create jobs for all Americans.  He is a powerful voice for freedom on the international stage and has worked for decades to improve lives around the globe, including his efforts to help sub-Saharan African countries by providing meaningful trade benefits that encourage growth and development in the region.  And he is committed to strengthening our national security by working to establish effective and targeted sanctions against countries that defy the rule of law and threaten our citizens.

“Ed’s leadership in Congress has made our nation stronger – and I am grateful for his service.

“I look forward to continuing to work with Ed this year and wish him and his family all the best.”