Kevin McCarthy is running for House Speaker

The frontrunner has formally announced his bid

Kevin McCarthy speaks while flanked by John Boehner (R-OH) during a press conference in Washington DC. (Mark Wilson/Getty)

House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy announced on Monday he would seek to replace John Boehner, his former boss, as the Speaker of the House.

NPR reported that the California representative sent an email to his colleagues seeking their support.

"We can't ignore the differences that exist, but we can and must heal the divisions in our conference with work, time, and trust. That is why I have decided to run for Speaker of the House and graciously ask for your support," he wrote to his GOP party members.

"If elected Speaker, I promise you that we will have the courage to lead the fight for our conservative principles and make our case to the American people."

The 50-year-old has retained a House leadership position since 2009 and was elected to his current position in 2014. After Mr Boehner’s resignation late last week, he was immediately considered the frontrunner in conservative circles.