The balance of power is razor thin. Any change could upset the balance.
And now a sudden retirement announcement sent Congress into complete hysterics.
Steny Hoyer’s Retirement Marks the End of an Era in Congress
At 86, Maryland’s Democratic Rep. Steny Hoyer, the longest-serving Democrat in the House, has chosen to step away from Congress after more than four decades of service, announcing he won’t seek re-election in 2026.
In a conversation with the Washington Post, Hoyer shared his thoughts, saying, “I did not want to be one of those members who clearly stayed, outstayed his or her ability to do the job.”
He’s planning to make it official with a speech on the House floor this Thursday. Hoyer is among over 40 House members heading for the exits before 2027 begins, and his district in southeastern Maryland—rated solidly Democratic by the Cook Political Report—will soon see new faces vying for the spot.
A Career Filled with Leadership and Milestones
Since winning his seat in 1981, Hoyer climbed the ranks to become the No. 2 Democrat in the House, a role he held from 2003 until 2023.
Over the years, he’s been deeply involved in major legislation and party events, including acting as parliamentarian for every Democratic National Convention since 2000.
His long tenure has seen him navigate countless political shifts, contributing to key policy debates along the way.
Colleagues Pay Tribute to Hoyer’s Dedication and Impact
The news of Hoyer’s retirement has sparked warm responses from across the political spectrum.
Virginia Sen. Mark Warner, a Democrat, took to X to say, “Steny Hoyer has spent a lifetime serving with decency, seriousness, and heart,” adding, “I’ve been grateful to work alongside him over the years — except maybe those times when we found ourselves on opposite sides of the Maryland vs. Virginia line, because no matter what, he was always a ferocious fighter for his state,” and wishing him “all the best in retirement.”
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, also a Democrat, reflected personally on X: “When I was a paratrooper and officer in the United States Army, my unit received an American flag and a Maryland flag from Leader Hoyer,” noting, “Those flags were a reminder that we were not forgotten. We were being thought about, that we were being prayed over.”
Moore went on, “Steny, your leadership meant the world to me then and as I stepped into public service myself. And it means the world to us now,” praising him for “securing critical federal investments and championing our federal workers,” being “a critical voice in fighting for health care and state investments,” and concluding, “We’re forever indebted to you for your exemplary statesmanship and your legacy of delivering for Marylanders. Congrats on your well-earned retirement.”
Former Democratic Party Chairman Jaime Harrison chimed in on X, highlighting Hoyer’s standout qualities: he “stood out for his intellect, his charisma, and — most of all — the deep respect he showed every member,” adding, “He has been a party stalwart- serving in House Dem leadership from 1989 to 2023 and as the Parliamentarian for every DNC Convention since 2000! Tremendous gratitude for his friendship and all he has done for our party and our country.”
