Politicians react to Sen. Jeff Flake’s decision to not run for re-election

PHOENIX — The political world was abuzz Tuesday after U.S. Sen. Jeff Flake (R-Ariz.) announced he would not run for re-election, citing a divisive political climate.

Flake attributed much of the divide to President Donald Trump during a speech on the Senate floor.

“There are times at which we must risk our careers in favor of our principles,” he said.

There was no immediate reaction from Trump, but White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders addressed the decision during her daily briefing.

Trump spox Sarah Sanders on Flake decision not to seek re-election: "It's probably a good move"

— Steve Peoples (@sppeoples) October 24, 2017

Political figures were quick to jump on social media to share their thoughts. Minutes before giving a speech himself, Arizona’s other senator, John McCain, thanked Flake for his service.

Thank you to my dear friend @JeffFlake for your honorable service to the state of #Arizona & the nation.

— John McCain (@SenJohnMcCain) October 24, 2017

McCain’s daughter, Megan, reacted with shock.

Woahhhhhhhhhhhhhh?!?!? https://t.co/c9tSQ3hmVP

— Meghan McCain (@MeghanMcCain) October 24, 2017

Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey thanked Flake in a statement.

“[Flake] was a voice for fiscal responsibility at the federal level before it was popular, and effectively ended the practice of earmarks,” he said. “I’ve appreciated his friendship, professionalism and intellect on policy issues impacting Arizona. I wish all the best for [Flake], Cheryl and their whole family.”

Former Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer tweeted what was on everyone’s mind following the announcement.

With @JeffFlake announcement that he won’t run for re-election, the 2018 Senate race about to get real interesting!

— Jan Brewer (@GovBrewer) October 24, 2017

Interesting is an understatement. Flake was expected to face a tough primary against Dr. Kelli Ward, who has received support from heavy-hitters who also worked for Trump.

Ward said Arizona voters would benefit from the senator’s decision.

Arizona voters are the big winner in @JeffFlake's decision to not seek reelection. They deserve a strong, conservative in the Senate 1/2

— Dr. Kelli Ward (@kelliwardaz) October 24, 2017

Who supports @POTUS & the 'America First' agenda. Our campaign proudly offers an optimistic path forward for Arizona & America #MAGA 2/2

— Dr. Kelli Ward (@kelliwardaz) October 24, 2017

Had he defeated Ward, Flake likely would have faced Democratic U.S. Rep. Kyrsten Sinema, who praised the senator in a statement.

“It’s been an honor to know and serve with [Flake],” the statement read. “He is a man of integrity and a statesman who is true to his convictions – an Arizonan through and through. I wish he and Cheryl and their family the very best.”

U.S. Rep. Trent Franks (R-Ariz.) also kind words for the senator.

“In spite of our sometimes stark political differences, I consider Sen. Jeff Flake a truly decent human being and a man who loves God, his country and his fellow human beings,” a statement from the congressman read. “I wish him and his family the very best God can give them during his remaining time in the Senate and going forward in life.”

Mesa Mayor John Giles also voiced his displeasure with the senator’s announcement, saying it will be “sad to see him go.”

Just read @JeffFlake ‘s remarks. Very sad to see him go but looking forward to hearing his unhindered opinions/observations going forward.

— Mayor John Giles (@MayorGiles) October 24, 2017

National political figures weighed in as well, though the reaction was decidedly more mixed.

I’m very saddened and disappointed to hear that @JeffFlake is retiring from the Senate.

— Lindsey Graham (@LindseyGrahamSC) October 24, 2017

Sen. Tim Kaine on Flake leaving: "it's a tragedy for the institution"

— Emma Loop (@LoopEmma) October 24, 2017

Schumer Statement on Senator Jeff Flake’s Retirement pic.twitter.com/xhaagpleyK

— Pat Ward (@WardDPatrick) October 24, 2017

Senator @JeffFlake has great intelligence and integrity. Always does what he believes is right. So sad that he won’t seek re-election.

— Sen. Susan Collins (@SenatorCollins) October 24, 2017

Sen. Bob Corker: "Flake is one of the best people in the United States Senate, no question. The senate will be less well-off without him."

— Emma Loop (@LoopEmma) October 24, 2017

Speaker Ryan statement on his friend Sen Jeff Flake announcing he won't seek re-election–> pic.twitter.com/txwW7JbRHa

— Alex Moe (@AlexNBCNews) October 24, 2017

.@JeffFlake & I haven't always agreed, but we respect each other. That's the nature of friendship, & it was once the nature of our politics.

— Mark Kelly (@ShuttleCDRKelly) October 24, 2017

Don't worry, @JeffFlake. Take it from me: There is great opportunity for service after Congress. Good luck, and see you out there. https://t.co/JZ0fLq8GIq

— Gabrielle Giffords (@GabbyGiffords) October 24, 2017

Asked @tedcruz what he thinks Flake’s remarks means for the GOP. He said “Well..” paused “The time is expiring on on this vote” walked away.

— Tara Ghoul-shan (@taragolshan) October 24, 2017

Holla! #MAGA 🇺🇸 👍🏽 pic.twitter.com/ybGnxfOHlg

— Katrina Pierson (@KatrinaPierson) October 24, 2017

Flake will hold his seat until early 2019.

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