WASHINGTON (AP) House Republican Leader Eric Cantor says he is resigning his leadership post at the end of next month.
The majority leader is stepping down in the aftermath of his defeat in a primary election to a tea-party backed rival in Virginia.
That clears the way for a Republican shake-up just before the midterm elections this fall, when control of Congress is at stake.
Two Dallas congressmen Pete Sessions and Jeb Hensarling have added their names to the list seeking the House leadership post.
Cantor said he will support Kevin McCarthy of California to replace him as majority leader.
Cantor said he'll serve out the remainder of his term in Congress. And he hopes to continue to be a champion for conservative causes across the nation after he leaves office.
On Tuesday, the Virginia Republican lost a primary election to David Brat.
