Rep. Justin Amash (R-Mich) stepped down from the conservative House Freedom Caucus — which he co-founded — and its board Monday, CNN first reported.

Why it matters: The Michigan congressman is the only Republican in Congress to support impeachment proceedings against President Trump. The caucus officially condemned him for his stance last month. He hasn't backed down from his controversial position — even as big GOP donors like the DeVos family pulled their support.

What he's saying: "I have the highest regard for them, and they’re my close friends," Amash told CNN congressional reporter Haley Byrd. "I didn’t want to be a further distraction for the group."