Utah Rep. Chaffetz says he won't run for re-election

WASHINGTON -- Utah Rep. Jason Chaffetz, a Republican who investigated Hillary Clinton before the 2016 presidential election but declined to investigate President Donald Trump, said Wednesday he won't run for re-election or any other office in 2018.

Chaffetz, who has been rumored as a possible candidate for Senate or governor, said after consulting with his family and "prayerful consideration, I have decided I will not be a candidate for any office in 2018."

The 50-year-old Chaffetz had strolled to four easy re-election wins in his Republican-friendly Utah congressional district.

But he was facing a challenge from a Democratic newcomer who raised more than a half-million dollars by tapping into anger over Chaffetz's recent comment suggesting people should spend their money on health insurance instead of iPhones.

Dr. Kathryn Allen has been transformed from a political unknown into a liberal hero for calling out Chaffetz on Twitter, giving her an early boost in name recognition.

Chaffetz, chairman of the House Oversight Committee, also drew fire from Democrats after saying he would not investigate Trump's business empire, given he had promised before the 2016 election he would investigate Clinton "for years" if she was elected.

In a statement on Facebook, Chaffetz noted he long has advocated public service should be for a limited time.

He said after more than 1,500 nights away from home, "it is time" to step aside.

Chaffetz said he has "no ulterior motives" and is healthy and confident he would re-elected.

Chaffetz was met by frequent, deafening boos at a February town hall as constituents grilled him on everything from investigating Trump's tax returns to Planned Parenthood.