Steny Hoyer, the Maryland representative who holds the distinction of being the longest-serving Democrat in Congress and a significant figure in party leadership, is set to retire at the end of his ongoing term. This announcement was scheduled to be made in a speech on the House floor, which was disclosed by an informed source who requested anonymity. Hoyer himself shared the news on social media, urging followers to "tune in," and confirmed his decision during a conversation with The Washington Post.
At 86 years old, Hoyer's retirement marks a notable moment within a trend where some of the most senior congressional leaders are stepping aside. This trend unfolds as new members of Congress prepare to take on governing roles amid a season characterized by widespread retirements on both sides of the aisle in anticipation of November's midterm elections, which will determine congressional control.
Representative Hoyer began his tenure in the House in 1981 after winning a special election and rapidly extended his influence well beyond his Chesapeake Bay-area constituency. Climbing the leadership ranks, he became the Democratic Party's number two leader. Following the Democratic victories in 2006, he served as majority leader and resumed this role again in 2019 when Democrats regained control of the House during President Donald Trump's administration.
Throughout his career, Hoyer worked closely with prominent Democratic figures, including Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi and Representative James Clyburn of South Carolina, forming a trio at the top echelons of the party. This period was marked by significant legislative achievements such as the passage of the Affordable Care Act under President Barack Obama's administration.
During the Trump presidency, as Democrats strived to reclaim the House majority, Hoyer engaged in efforts to appeal to blue-collar voters beyond the party's traditional bases. He positioned himself as an alternative leader to Pelosi and promoted his "Make it in America" campaign, aiming to strengthen industry, manufacturing, and employment within the United States. However, despite occasional rivalries, Hoyer and Pelosi often acted in concert. When Pelosi announced her retirement the previous fall, observers closely watched Hoyer's next course of action.