Written by: Terry Alexander

As Rep. Ken Buck bid farewell to Congress last week, he found himself facing criticism from unexpected sources. Not only was he ousted from the Trump-aligned House Freedom Caucus, but he also received additional blows from Rep. Lauren Boebert, who is running to replace him.

However, the Colorado Republican remained undeterred and is not engaging in retaliatory actions.

In an interview with POLITICO on his final day as a congressman, Buck reiterated his stance that he is leaving due to the dysfunctional and toxic environment of the House. He described it as the worst he has witnessed during his five terms in office.

Despite Buck's explanation, Boebert has publicly speculated that his early exit was motivated by a desire to hinder her chances of winning his seat in November. Boebert has suggested on the online video platform Rumble that Buck's timing undeniably complicates her bid. However, she chose not to give up her seat to run in a special election, meaning she will now have to face a newly elected incumbent in November.

Buck firmly denies that his decision was influenced by Boebert and has refrained from publicly engaging in the topic. He has indicated that he will stay out of the race entirely and does not anticipate endorsing any candidate.

Buck expressed his belief to POLITICO that there are many good candidates and stated, "I'm not going to interfere in that process."

His office, according to the interviewer, once adorned with photographs of presidents and a gun, now stands empty.

As for Buck's future plans, there has been speculation for nearly a year that he had secured a lucrative cable news gig, potentially with CNN. However, Buck vehemently denies any TV deal or job lined up upon his departure. He revealed that he is engaged in conversations regarding his next steps but clarified that they do not involve a TV contract, despite the rumors.

READ MORE:

• HOUSE FREEDOM CAUCUS REMOVES REP. KEN BUCK AS HE PACKS-UP AND EXITS

• THE WAR OF ATTRITION FOR THE U.S. HOUSE: A REFLECTION ON REP. KEN BUCK'S SPEEDY RESIGNATION

• AN EVEN UGLIER WAR OF WORDS ERUPTS BETWEEN COLORADO CONGRESSMEN KEN BUCK AND REP. LAUREN BOEBERT

While Buck has little positive to say about Washington, his party, or his former colleagues in the House, he did express admiration for Bob Good, the Freedom Caucus Chair from Virginia. However, Buck told POLITICO that he believes that Good could have handled his removal differently.

As Rep. Ken Buck concludes his time in Congress, his departure sparks speculation about what lies ahead for him. The political landscape is ever-evolving and looking at the evolution of Buck during his final term, congressman can change too.