Story highlights Tom MacArthur played a key role in bridging conservatives and moderates on health care

Much of the group he chaired bristled at the health care bill he championed

(CNN) Rep. Tom MacArthur announced Tuesday he is stepping down as the co-chair of the moderate Tuesday Group.

He announced his decision during a routine luncheon with members of his group. MacArthur was a key author of an amendment that salvaged the GOP's efforts to repeal and replace Obamacarem but his involvement in negotiations with members of the conservative House Freedom Caucus had caused tension for moderate members who believed MacArthur had left them in a tough position on health care.

"While some embraced my efforts as co-chairman, others have bristled," MacArthur told his colleagues during his announcement. "Clearly, our group is divided. Many in the Tuesday Group are eager to live up to our ideal of being problem-solvers, while others seem unwilling to compromise. The recent health care debate was illustrative."

MacArthur's resignation was first reported by Politico New Jersey. MacArthur told his colleagues in the meeting that he was no longer able to be a leader of the group.

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