Texas Republican Party Chairman Allen West has submitted his resignation. West became chair in July 2020.
West served one term in Congress from Florida from 2011 to 2013. He moved to Texas and announced in 2019 he would challenge James Dickey to become the state's Republican Party chair.
Since becoming chair, West has criticized Governor Greg Abbott's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, saying the governor should not have imposed a mask requirement or limits to business occupancy.
During the legislative session that ended Monday, West criticized Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, saying Patrick and Senate Republicans "tried to kill" a measure allowing permitless carry of handguns. The bill passed, and Abbott says he will sign the measure.
"It has been my distinct honor to serve as Chairman of the Republican Party of Texas. I pray Godspeed for this governing body," West said in a statement.
"Lt. Col. Allen West will take this opportunity to prayerfully reflect on a new chapter in his already distinguished career. We know that wherever he goes next, he will continue to be a bulwark against progressive socialism and a champion for the principles of Texas and our American Republic," the Texas Republican Party says.
Texas GOP says West will remain as the party's chair until a replacement can be selected at a meeting July 11.
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Sign Up and Follow NewsRadio 1080 KRLD