Steny Hoyer has served as the U.S. Representative for Maryland’s 5th Congressional District since 1981, making him one of the longest-serving members in Congress. A Democratic leader, Hoyer has been a prominent voice in shaping legislative priorities and fostering bipartisanship. Representing a district that spans the southern Maryland counties and parts of Prince George’s County, Hoyer is a strong advocate for issues affecting his constituents, including federal workers, military personnel, and local businesses.
Hoyer was born on June 14, 1939, in New York City but grew up in Mitchellville, Maryland. He earned a bachelor’s degree in government and politics from the University of Maryland, College Park, in 1963, where he was a member of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity. He later obtained a law degree from Georgetown University in 1966. His early career in politics began as a staffer for U.S. Senator Daniel Brewster, alongside future House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
Hoyer entered Maryland politics in 1966, winning a seat in the Maryland Senate. He served until 1979, including as Senate President from 1975–1979—the youngest person to hold this position in state history. His tenure in state politics was marked by an emphasis on education, labor rights, and health care reform.
In Congress, Hoyer quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a member of the Democratic leadership. He served as House Majority Leader from 2007 to 2011 and again from 2019 to 2023. As Majority Leader, Hoyer played a pivotal role in advancing significant legislation, including the Affordable Care Act, financial regulations, and COVID-19 relief measures. He is known for his skill in forging coalitions to pass critical bills, often acting as a bridge between progressive and moderate factions within the Democratic Party.
Hoyer is also a staunch advocate for civil rights and voting rights, helping shepherd the Voting Rights Act reauthorization in 2006. His dedication to federal workers and defense contractors reflects his district’s proximity to Washington, D.C., and its strong ties to the federal government and military.
A long-time advocate for bipartisanship, Hoyer has worked with colleagues across the aisle on initiatives like infrastructure development and cybersecurity. He is an outspoken supporter of international human rights, U.S.-Israel relations, and environmental protection.
Hoyer lives in Mechanicsville, Maryland. He has three daughters and is a proud grandfather. Widely respected for his legislative acumen and dedication to public service, Hoyer continues to be a key figure in the House of Representatives.
