Stephen Colbert and Jimmy Kimmel have some parting words for Paul Ryan

Stephen Colbert and Jimmy Kimmel say goodbye to Paul Ryan
(Image credit: Screenshots/YouTube/The Late Show, Jimmy Kimmel Live)

House Speaker Paul Ryan announced that he isn't seeking re-election, and Stephen Colbert had some theories. "No one with this kind of power just walks away, that's just not done," he said on Wednesday's Late Show. "The man is third in line for the presidency — though, maybe he's leaving because he just figured that out. 'Wait, the FBI just raided Michael Cohen's office? Not it! Not it!'"

"There's a lot of speculation that Ryan is jumping ship before a big Democratic wave sweeps the midterms," but Ryan's friends say he's leaving after getting his long-cherished tax cuts — and because of President Trump, Colbert said, feigning shock. "What? Working with President Trump is frustrating? That's not what the last 30 people who quit said." Trump himself was effusive in his praise, telling Ryan, "We are with you Paul!" "Yes, Republicans are with you, Paul — and by 'with you,' they mean leaving office in November," Colbert said. "So fare thee well, Paul Ryan. We'll all miss your favorite catchphrase: 'No, I hadn't heard what the president said but if true, that is troubling.'"

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Peter Weber, The Week US

Peter has worked as a news and culture writer and editor at The Week since the site's launch in 2008. He covers politics, world affairs, religion and cultural currents. His journalism career began as a copy editor at a financial newswire and has included editorial positions at The New York Times Magazine, Facts on File, and Oregon State University.