Rep. Steny Hoyer, the longest-serving member of the U.S. House from Maryland, announced his retirement on Thursday, marking the end of a storied 44-year career in politics. The 86-year-old Democrat made the emotional announcement on the House floor, thanking his family for their unwavering support and expressing his sadness at leaving behind an institution he has dedicated his life to.
Hoyer, who served as the longest-standing member of the U.S. House from Maryland since 2007, is also one of the longest-serving members of the entire U.S. House, with a career spanning decades. He became emotional during his speech, recalling the words of then-Senator John F. Kennedy and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who were both inspired by Hoyer's dedication to public service.
Despite his deep concern that the House is not living up to its founder's goals, Hoyer announced that he would not seek another term, citing his desire to ensure that his generation's experience was more "diamond" than "stone." He urged his colleagues to examine their conscience and renew their courage to carry out the responsibilities demanded by the Constitution.
Hoyer's retirement marks the end of an era in Maryland politics, with many leaders and lawmakers across the state congratulating him on his years of service. Maryland Governor Wes Moore hailed Hoyer as a "true Maryland Giant," while Democratic Party Chair Steuart Pittman and Vice Chair Dr. Charlene Dukes thanked him for his behind-the-scenes work in uplifting Democratic candidates.
The news of Hoyer's retirement comes after he suffered a mild stroke in August 2024, but it appears that he is recovering well. His decision to step down from House leadership earlier this year was seen as a pragmatic move, allowing him to remain relevant without overstaying his welcome.
Hoyer, who served as the longest-standing member of the U.S. House from Maryland since 2007, is also one of the longest-serving members of the entire U.S. House, with a career spanning decades. He became emotional during his speech, recalling the words of then-Senator John F. Kennedy and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who were both inspired by Hoyer's dedication to public service.
Despite his deep concern that the House is not living up to its founder's goals, Hoyer announced that he would not seek another term, citing his desire to ensure that his generation's experience was more "diamond" than "stone." He urged his colleagues to examine their conscience and renew their courage to carry out the responsibilities demanded by the Constitution.
Hoyer's retirement marks the end of an era in Maryland politics, with many leaders and lawmakers across the state congratulating him on his years of service. Maryland Governor Wes Moore hailed Hoyer as a "true Maryland Giant," while Democratic Party Chair Steuart Pittman and Vice Chair Dr. Charlene Dukes thanked him for his behind-the-scenes work in uplifting Democratic candidates.
The news of Hoyer's retirement comes after he suffered a mild stroke in August 2024, but it appears that he is recovering well. His decision to step down from House leadership earlier this year was seen as a pragmatic move, allowing him to remain relevant without overstaying his welcome.
... kinda sad, tbh. been in politics for 44 yrs, what a legacy! but i gotta wonder, is it time for us to see some new faces? seems like the old guard is still got it 
. not saying he's out of touch or anything, but maybe it's time for someone younger & hungrier to take the reins 
. personally, i think he left on good terms tho, no hard feelings 
. anyway, 86 yrs young & going strong - that's dedication 
!
can you believe Rep Steny Hoyer is retiring after an insane 44 years in politics? I mean, that's dedication! 
He's been a true public servant and I'm so grateful for the work he's done. I love how he wants to make sure his generation doesn't end up being 'stone' - like, we need more people with his heart and conviction in politics. 
It's also super inspiring to see him still recovering from that stroke and not letting it hold him back. He's an amazing example of someone who is truly living their purpose. I'm gonna miss watching him work on the House floor, but I know he's leaving a legacy that'll live on 
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. I hope whoever takes his seat will carry on his legacy & continue pushing for positive change 
. Wish him all the best in his retirement 
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. But at the same time, it's cool to see someone take pride in their work and leave on their own terms 
. He can finally kick back, relax, and enjoy some well-deserved R&R 
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wish him all the best for what's next 
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. But on the other hand, maybe he's just saying that because he wants to be remembered as some kinda hero... idk 
. Anyway, congrats to Rep Hoyer on his years of service - he definitely deserves it! 
I think it's time for some fresh faces and new ideas, but it's hard to imagine someone taking over his shoes. He's like a pillar in the House, you know? 
i got all d respect for him, been servin our country 4 44 yrs 
and congrats to him from da gov of maryland 
! anyway, imo, hes doing the right thing by not seeking re-election, so thats def a silver lining 
. His legacy will live on, and I'm sure we'll see many more leaders inspired by his dedication to public service 
. As a storied 44-year career comes to a close, it's hard not to feel a sense of nostalgia wash over one's thoughts 
. By stepping down before his health becomes a hindrance, he's able to maintain a level of relevance without overstaying his welcome