I am a big fan of John Shadegg (R., Ariz.), but this is rather extraordinary. I don’t believe I have ever heard of 143 Republican House members urging one of their own not to retire. This is precisely what has happened since Shadegg announced his retirement. Rep. Mike Pence (R., Ind.) is deeply involved in the effort, and the Jeb Hensarling, chairman of the Republican Study Committee, just released this statement:

RSC Chairman Jeb Hensarling (R-TX), former RSC Chairman Mike Pence (R-IN), and Congressman Pete Hoekstra (R-MI) circulated a letter amongst their colleagues asking Congressman Shadegg to reconsider his decision. Within 3 hours of circulating the letter, over 130 House Republicans signed it. To date, 143 Members of the Republican conference have asked Congressman Shadegg to reconsider his decision.

They obviously wouldn’t be doing this if they didn’t think they had a chance of prevailing on him. Here is a portion of the letter in circulation:

Your intellectual consistency in defense of the Constitution and passionate articulation of conservative principles is in need now more than ever. We fear that without you and the long-term perspective you bring to every debate, our battles will be difficult to win. This is especially true in the area of health care where you are one of the leading experts.
John, you continue to inspire, embolden, and lead. The Republican Conference needs you here, the Conservative Movement needs you here, and the country needs you here. Please reconsider.