TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) - Kansas congresswoman Lynn Jenkins will be leaving a position on the House Republicans' leadership team when the newly elected Congress convenes in January.

Jenkins said Wednesday that she is stepping down as GOP conference vice chairwoman to focus on health care and tax reform legislation.

She is a member of the Ways and Means Committee and expects it to review both tax and health care proposals.

Jenkins is seen as a potential candidate for governor in 2018 to replace term-limited Republican Sam Brownback. She said she's always willing to consider opportunities for returning to Kansas.

Jenkins has represented the 2nd District of eastern Kansas since 2009.