Steny H. Hoyer

Steny Hamilton Hoyer, born on June 14, 1939, is a prominent American attorney and politician who has represented Maryland's 5th congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives since 1981. His political career began with a special election victory on May 19, 1981, and as of 2023, he is serving his 22nd term in Congress. Hoyer's district encompasses a diverse mix of rural and suburban areas located southeast of Washington, D.C. He is recognized as the dean of the Maryland congressional delegation and holds the distinction of being the most senior Democrat in the House.

Hoyer's leadership roles are notable; he served as House Majority Leader under Speaker Nancy Pelosi from 2007 to 2011 and again from 2019 to 2023. Between these periods, he was the House Minority Whip during times when Republicans controlled the House, specifically from 2003 to 2007 and from 2011 to 2019. After the Democrats regained control in the 2018 midterm elections, Hoyer was reappointed as Majority Leader for the 116th Congress, continuing his role as the second-ranking Democrat under Pelosi.

On November 17, 2022, Hoyer announced his decision, alongside Pelosi, not to seek leadership roles in the upcoming 118th Congress, although he plans to continue serving as a member of the House. His extensive experience and influence within the Democratic Party have made him a key figure in American politics for decades.