Maryland Congressman Steny Hoyer announces retirement after decades in House

WASHINGTON (7News) — Steny Hoyer, the longtime Maryland Democrat and former No. 2 leader in the U.S. House, is retiring from Congress.

Hoyer, 86, formally announced Thursday that he will not seek reelection during remarks on the House floor. He was greeted by a standing ovation and cheers from both sides of the aisle as he was introduced.

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Hoyer said he had “mixed emotions” about his announcement.

“I have decided not to seek another term in the people’s House,” Hoyer said. “I make this decision with sadness, for I love this house.”

First elected to Congress in 1981, Hoyer has represented Maryland for more than four decades and is one of the longest-serving members of the House.

“The Congress I entered in, in 1981, was somewhat different,” Hoyer said. “Most Republicans and Democrats worked together in a collegial, productive way. The leaders of the House, Tip O’Neill and Bob Michael, fostered that environment.”

Hoyer went on to say he was concerned about the direction Congress has taken, that it was not living up to the “founders’ goals.”

“I encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to examine their conscience, renew their courage and carry out the responsibilities that the first article of the Constitution demands,” he said.

Hoyer went on to call for bipartisanship in the House.

The long-time representative ended his speech thanking colleagues, staff and the constituents who had elected him to office 23 times.

As Hoyer concluded his speech, “with tremendous gratitude,” he became visibly emotional as both parties once again gave him a standing ovation.