Regula Is Stepping Down Tomorrow

Longtime GOP Rep. Ralph Regula is retiring tomorrow, according to GOP insiders. Regula, who has served in the House since 1973, would be the second Ohio Republican to step down this cycle. The late Rep. Paul Gillmor (R-Ohio) died unexpectedly on Sept. 5.

Regula has informed senior Republicans, including Minority Leader John A. Boehner of Ohio, of his decision, said the sources, and reportedly informed his staff today. No details yet on when and where the formal announcement will take place, but it is expected back in Ohio tomorrow.

Regula, who will be 83 in December, has been rumored to be stepping down for several cycles. He holds a top spot on the House Appropriations Committee but was passed over several years ago by GOP leaders in favor of Rep. Jerry Lewis (R-Calif.), which set off the initial round of retirement whispers, although Regula continued to serve on the powerful panel.

A call to Regula's office for comment wasn't immediately returned.