Mitch McConnell stepping down as Senate GOP leader after 17 years

Washington — Sen. Minority Leader Mitch McConnell announced he's stepping down step as the upper chamber's GOP leader after 17 years at the helm.

The Kentucky Republican, who turned 82 last week, announced his decision on the Senate floor on Wednesday.

"I always imagined a moment when I have total clarity and peace about the sunset of my work. a moment when I'm certain I have helped preserve the ideals I so strongly believe," he said. "That day arrived today."