Washington — US House speaker Paul Ryan would not seek re-election in November, a top aide said on Wednesday, dealing a blow to congressional Republicans already facing a possible Democratic takeover of the House in the November elections and setting off a GOP leadership battle. "This morning, speaker Ryan shared with his colleagues that this will be his last year as a member of the House," Ryan adviser Brendan Buck said in a statement. "He will serve out his full term, run through the tape, and then retire in January." Ryan’s retirement had been the subject of rumours in the halls of Congress for months and the Wisconsin Republican has given only vague answers when asked about his plans. After passage of Ryan’s long-sought tax overhaul late last year, the speaker clashed with US President Donald Trump over his planned tariffs. Trump wrote on Twitter: "Speaker Paul Ryan is a truly good man, and while he will not be seeking re-election, he will leave a legacy of achievement that nobo...

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