Jeff Hays said Friday that he will not seek re-election following his six-year term as chairman of the Colorado Republican Party.

In a brief announcement, Hays said he believes the state GOP “is primed for new leadership.”

Hays announcement comes after Colorado Republican candidates were dealt a historic drubbing in November’s elections. Democrats were elected governor as well as all other state constitutional offices and took control of both houses of the legislature.

The state GOP central committee will choose the next chairman in March.

Here is the full text of Hays’ statement:

My fellow Republicans,

After much prayer, contemplation, and consultation, I have decided that I will not seek re-election as your state party chairman. After six years of party leadership at county and state party levels, I’m eager to make a positive difference in other areas and also believe the party is primed for new leadership. I pray the state central committee will choose wisely in March.

I am thankful for the opportunity to serve and look forward to starting 2019 with enthusiasm and kicking off some key initiatives that will move our party toward victory in 2020 and beyond.

Gratefully and sincerely,

Jeff Hays

Chairman, Colorado Republican Party