Key dates in his long career
1990: Elected to Congress to represent the Eighth Congressional District of Ohio.
Jan. 5, 2011: After election by his Republican colleagues, sworn in as Speaker of the House.
Jan. 30, 2011: Defended his tendency to tear up. "I wear my emotions on my sleeve," he said.
July 27, 2011: "This is the bill," he told House GOP of a plan to raise the borrowing limit. "I can't do this job unless you're behind me,"
Dec. 5, 2012: Chose not to be photographed with President Obama at a holiday party.
Dec. 21, 2012: Ranked as least popular congressional leader in a poll by Rasmussen Reports.
Jan. 1, 2013: Voted for a bipartisan bill aimed at preventing tax increases. Many Republicans opposed the bill.
Jan. 3, 2013: Re-elected to serve a second term as speaker; 12 Republicans voted against him.