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Democratic Congressman Steny Hoyer has announced that he will not seek reelection, bringing an end to a distinguished career in the U.S. House of Representatives that has spanned more than four decades. The Washington Post reported Wednesday that the 86-year-old lawmaker, who represents Maryland’s 5th Congressional District, plans to formally announce his retirement during a floor speech on Thursday.
Hoyer explained that his decision was driven by a desire to leave office while still capable of effectively serving his constituents. “I did not want to be one of those members who clearly stayed, outstayed his or her ability to do the job,” he told the newspaper. His announcement comes after he suffered a mild stroke in 2024, an event that reportedly contributed to his decision to step away from public office.
First elected to the House of Representatives in May 1981, Hoyer has been a central figure in Democratic leadership for decades. His tenure makes him the third-longest serving current member of the House, trailing only Republican Representatives Hal Rogers and Chris Smith, both of whom began their congressional careers earlier in 1981. Hoyer is also among a rare group of just 33 current or former House members who have served for 40 years or more, underscoring the longevity and influence of his career in Congress.
Before his time on Capitol Hill, Hoyer spent more than a decade in the Maryland State Senate, where he rose to serve as senate president. In Congress, he held several powerful leadership roles, including House Majority Leader under former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, the second-highest position in Democratic leadership. He also served as Minority Whip, a role critical to organizing party votes and maintaining legislative discipline.
While Hoyer acknowledged that he once aspired to become Speaker of the House, he expressed no lingering regrets. “Sure, I would have loved to be speaker. Who wouldn’t love to be speaker? But they’re not deep regrets,” he said.
Hoyer’s retirement marks the end of an era in Maryland and national politics, closing a chapter defined by legislative experience, party leadership, and decades of public service.
