Rep. Steny Hoyer
Hoyer, 85, who has represented Maryland's 5th Congressional District since 1981 and served as House Majority Leader from 2007 to 2011 and again from 2019 to 2023, becomes the latest in a wave of veteran Democratic lawmakers stepping away from Capitol Hill. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., announced in November that she would not seek re-election in 2026, signaling a generational shift in Democratic leadership.
"After careful consideration and many conversations with my family, I have decided that I will not seek re-election to Congress in 2026," Hoyer said in his retirement announcement, reflecting on a career that began when Ronald Reagan occupied the White House.
Throughout his tenure, Hoyer distinguished himself as a fierce advocate for educational access and equity, particularly for institutions serving underrepresented communities. His district includes several historically Black colleges and universities, including Bowie State University, where his impact has been deeply felt.
Dr. Aminta H. Breaux, president of Bowie State University, praised Hoyer's unwavering commitment to higher education in a statement released Thursday.
"Congressman Hoyer was the very first elected official to welcome me to the district when I became president of Bowie State University, and, from that moment forward, he offered not only his support but his steadfast partnership," Breaux said. "Because of his leadership and advocacy, our university has been able to grow, thrive and more fully serve our students and community."
Breaux noted that Hoyer's influence extended far beyond legislative victories.
"I watched his retirement announcement and was struck by the sincerity, humility and grace with which he reflected on a long and distinguished career," she said. "At a time when our laws are being tested and our democratic values are under strain, his unwavering commitment to public service, principled leadership and the rule of law stands as a powerful example for this generation and the next."
Hoyer's legislative record on education includes consistent support for increased funding for Pell Grants, which provide financial aid to low-income students, and robust appropriations for HBCUs through Title III programs. He was instrumental in securing federal resources for campus infrastructure improvements and research initiatives at Maryland's public universities.
As the second-ranking Democrat in the House for much of his career, Hoyer used his considerable influence to ensure that education remained a top priority in federal budget negotiations, even during periods of fiscal austerity.
Hoyer's retirement comes as Democrats grapple with their diminished status as the minority party in both chambers of Congress. His departure, along with Pelosi's and potentially others, represents the closing of a chapter for a generation of Democratic leaders who shaped the party's direction for decades.
The Maryland congressman's district, which includes portions of Prince George's, Charles, Calvert, and St. Mary's counties, is expected to remain solidly Democratic. Several potential successors are already being mentioned as likely candidates for the 2026 primary.
Hoyer's retirement will take effect in January 2027, when the 120th Congress is sworn in.
