Representative Steny Hoyer, an 86-year-old Democrat from Maryland and the longest-serving member of his party in Congress, has announced his decision to retire at the conclusion of his current term. The former House Majority Leader is scheduled to formally announce his decision not to seek re-election on the House floor on Thursday, ending a career spanning over four decades.
Announcement Details
Representative Hoyer's retirement plans were confirmed in an interview with The Washington Post, and his office provided confirmation to ABC News. The formal announcement is expected to take place during a speech on the House floor on Thursday at 10 a.m.
Decades of Congressional Service and Leadership
Hoyer first entered the House of Representatives in 1981 following a special election. Throughout his more than four-decade tenure, he served as the second-highest-ranking Democrat in the House. He held the position of House Majority Leader following the 2006 elections and again in 2019 during the administration of President Donald Trump.
He collaborated with Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi and Representative James Clyburn of South Carolina, forming a key Democratic leadership triumvirate for many years. His tenure included two decades serving as the deputy to Pelosi. During this period, significant legislation, such as the Affordable Care Act, was enacted under a Democratic majority with President Barack Obama.
Policy Advocacy and Professional Relationships
As a prominent appropriator, Hoyer played a role in directing federal funds to his home state of Maryland. He also advocated for a 'Make it in America' initiative, which focused on strengthening domestic industry, production, and employment.
Hoyer and Pelosi's professional relationship began in the 1960s when both served as congressional interns, and they frequently aligned on legislative matters throughout their careers. Hoyer was recognized for fostering more conciliatory relationships with Republican leaders compared to some of his Democratic counterparts.
During President Trump's first term, Hoyer engaged in campaigns aimed at attracting working-class voters and was considered a potential candidate for the Speakership.
Context of Leadership Transition
Hoyer's retirement, at 86 years old, aligns with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's announced departure from Congress at the end of the current year. Pelosi announced her decision last fall, leading to speculation regarding Hoyer's future plans. His departure contributes to an ongoing discussion within the Democratic Party concerning the transition of leadership to a new generation. This context also draws attention to the plans of Representative Jim Clyburn (D-SC), 85, who holds the third-highest-ranking Democratic position and is currently expected to seek re-election next year.