Sen. Orrin Hatch Announces Retirement, Clearing the Way for Romney Run

Utah Senator Orrin Hatch announced his retirement, clearing the way for a possible run by Mitt Romney.

Hath is the longest-serving Senate Republican.

His retirement goes against the request of President Trump who according to the NY Times, wanted Hatch to run for an eighth term.

He announced his retirement in a video released to the public.

Hatch mentioned how President Trump called him a fighter, saying he’s been a fighter his whole life and how he brought the fighting spirit to Washington. “But every good fighter knows when to hang up the gloves.

And for me, that time is soon approaching.” With Hatch out, Mitt Romney could potentially take his seat.

Trump pressured Hatch to seek re-election to block Romney.

He has been known to be harshly critical of President Trump.

Mitt Romney, who was the former governor of Massachusetts now resides in Utah.

Romney was unaware of Hatch’s decision but, The Times reports, had previously told associates he would run if Hatch retired.