Maryland Representative Steny Hoyer, a longstanding figure in U.S. politics, is poised to announce his retirement from Congress this Thursday, marking the end of a notable career that spans several decades. According to sources familiar with the matter, Hoyer, who has been an influential member of the House since 1981, will step down, leaving behind a legacy of political leadership and service.

Representing a district that includes areas from the eastern suburbs of Washington, D.C., to southern Maryland, Hoyer climbed the ranks to become the House’s second-highest-ranking Democrat, serving under Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Despite stepping down from his leadership role after the Democrats lost control of the House in 2022, Hoyer continued to make his mark, securing a senior position on the House Appropriations Committee.

Hoyer's tenure in Congress is surpassed by only two other current House members, GOP Reps. Hal Rogers of Kentucky and Chris Smith of New Jersey, who have been in office just a few months longer than him. At 86, Hoyer had been non-committal about his intentions to seek reelection, amid a wave of retirements and primary challenges facing senior Democrats.

His impending retirement is set to shake up the political landscape in his heavily Democratic district. The race for his seat is already heating up with candidates like Harry Jarin, who launched a primary challenge in May, focusing on the need for younger representation.

This transition comes at a time when other senior Democrats, including Nancy Pelosi, have announced plans to retire, signaling a significant shift in the party’s old guard. As the Democratic Party braces for this changing of the guard, Hoyer’s departure will undoubtedly be felt both in Maryland and across the national political scene.

A spokesperson for Hoyer has yet to respond to requests for comment on his retirement. As the community and fellow politicians await his official announcement, many are reflecting on his long service and preparing for the new chapter in Maryland’s political narrative.