Pence Enters Race For GOP Conference Chair, Hensarling Is Out

By John Bresnahan

(The Politico)  GOP Rep. Mike Pence has entered the race for Republican Conference chiarman, while Rep. Jeb Hensarling has bowed out, according to House sources.

Pence is a former chairman of the Republican Study Committee, and one of the leading conservatives in the House. Hensarling is the current RSC chairman, and with both of them in the race, it could have diluted the support either man receive.

Rep, Adam Putnam (Fla.), who was Conference chairman, announced on Tuesday that he is stepping down from the post.