Rep. Aaron Schock returned to the Capitol today, casting a final vote in the House before delivering a farewell address to close a nearly two-month drama for the Illinois Republican.
On the final day of legislative business before his March 31 resignation becomes official, Schock cast a vote in favor of a bipartisan deal to eliminate the Medicare "Doc-Fix."
“I leave here with sadness and humility,” Schock said. “For those whom I've let down, I will work tirelessly to make it up to you.”
“I know that God has a plan for my life,” he added. “I believe that through life's struggles, we learn from our mistakes, and we learn more about ourselves. And I know that this is not the end of a story, but rather the beginning of a new chapter.”
Schock made headlines this winter when his congressional office was redecorated to mirror the PBS television show “Downton Abbey.” Like Schock’s congressional career, the popular British drama is ending after about six years.
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After his speech, Schock chatted with colleagues at the back of the House chamber and in the Republican cloak room before rushing out of the Capitol.
The four-term congressman ignored questions about a nascent criminal investigation into his financial dealings.
Asked what’s next, Schock replied, “Easter.”
Pressed about the criminal probe, Schock politely answered, “You guys have a great day, all right?” before ducking into an awaiting vehicle.
During his farewell address, Schock pointed out that Abraham Lincoln held the same congressional seat in central Illinois for a single term before he became president.
“Few faced as many defeats in his personal, business and public life as [Lincoln] did,” Schock said. “His continual perseverance in the face of these trials - never giving up - is something all Americans should be inspired by, especially when going through a valley in life. I believe that through life's struggles, we learn from our mistakes, and we learn more about ourselves.”
He also recalled taking the oath of office in 2009, when he was sworn in as the youngest member of the 111th Congress.
“I remember feeling so excited about the opportunity that lied ahead,” Schock said. “I remember vividly this chamber and all it meant to me and the country - the men and women debating the big issues of the day, not always agreeing, but always fighting without apology for what they believed in.”
Now they’ll debate those issues without him.