Boris Johnson resigns as British prime minister. Here's what happened

Prime Minister Boris Johnson reads a statement outside 10 Downing Street, London, formally resigning as Conservative Party leader, in London, Thursday, July 7, 2022. Johnson said Thursday he will remain as British prime minister while a leadership contest is held to choose his successor. (AP Photo/Frank Augstein)

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has finally resigned under heavy pressure from lawmakers in his own party. His resignation caps a remarkable political career filled with highs, lows and almost too many scandals to count.

He said he will stay in office until the Conservative Party chooses a new leader, who will then take over as prime minister.

Johnson made the announcement standing outside 10 Downing St., the official residence of the British prime minister, where he defended his achievements and assured the British public that the work of the government will carry on during the handover process.