Republican Rep. Jason Chaffetz of Utah, who earlier this year announced he was leaving Congress, reportedly is telling Capitol Hill staffers he’ll be taking on a “substantial role” at Fox News as soon as this summer.
“Let’s just say that when Jason told us he was headed to Fox, no one was surprised,” one senior House Republican aide told the Washingtonian.
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The 50-year-old, who’s been in Congress since 2009, has said on Facebook he made “a personal decision to return to the private sector.” Previously, there had been speculation he might make a bid for the Utah governor’s mansion.
“After long consultation with my family and prayerful consideration, I have decided I will not be a candidate for any office in 2018,” he wrote back in April.
“After more than 1,500 nights away from my home, it is time. I may run again for public office, but not in 2018,” he said, adding: “For those that would speculate otherwise, let me be clear that I have no ulterior motives. I am healthy. I am confident I would continue to be re-elected by large margins.”
“I know he was gunning for it…Fox was his first choice once he announced his plans [not to seek re-election],” said a GOP lawmaker who’s close to Chaffetz.