The veteran news anchor confirmed the news Tuesday in an exclusive statement to PEOPLE, saying, "I have decided to step down from the 'CBS Evening News.' I'm really proud of the talented team on the CBS Evening News and the award-winning work we've been able to do in the past five years in addition to the reporting I've done for 60 Minutes and CBS Sunday Morning. In making the decision to move on, I know the Evening News will be in great hands, but I am excited about the future."