WASHINGTON, DC (WENY) -- In a surprise announcement on the House floor, Representative Tom Reed (R-NY23) announced he is resigning from Congress, effective today. 

Rep. Reed delivered the following statement on the floor during session Tuesday afternoon. 

"Madam Speaker,

After almost 12 years in Congress, today is my last day. It has been an honor to serve with you all from both parties. I love this institution as it still exemplifies what is best about our government, we are the People's House. While I am proud that we put people before politics, there is much more to do. I am leaving to continue that work and have a greater impact on our country.

A House divided cannot stand, but I add, a house united will not fail. It is time for petty political posturing to end. In God I trust. His divine protection will extend if we accept His love and divine spark that exists in each of us. I want to thank my family, without their love and support I am nothing. And I thank the people who worked for us, and helped so many, I am grateful.

My most profound appreciation is for the people of Western New York. Thank you for giving a country lawyer, the youngest of 12, raised by a single mother whose father passed away when I was just two years old, the honor of representing you at the highest level. Only in America can such a dream come true. So I humbly bid farewell, and submit my resignation as a member of the House. And I wish you all godspeed."

In a statement issued after the announcement, Rep. Reed said he is leaving Congress to work at the Prime Policy Group in Washington, DC, "Washington's leading bipartisan government relations and public affairs firm," according to its website. 

This was Reed's last term in Congress; he announced in 2021 he would not seek another term. 

This is a developing story. WENY News will have continuing coverage of this announcement this evening.