WASHINGTON — Rep. Sylvester Turner, a Texas Democrat and former mayor of Houston, has passed away at the age of 70 after suffering a medical emergency. Turner, who was just two months into his first term in Congress, attended President Donald Trump’s address to Congress on Tuesday night before experiencing health complications.
According to two House Democratic lawmakers, Turner’s passing was confirmed Wednesday. His office later released a statement acknowledging his death. Turner had previously battled bone cancer.
A Career of Public Service
Before being elected to Congress in November, Turner served as Houston’s mayor from 2016 to 2024. A Harvard Law graduate, he practiced law in Houston and dedicated more than 25 years as a state legislator before stepping into his congressional role.
Turner ran for Congress following the passing of longtime Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, who died of pancreatic cancer last July. A close ally of Jackson Lee, Turner was selected by local Democratic leaders to appear on the ballot and won the seat in November. He was sworn into office on January 3, 2025.
As a member of the Congressional Black Caucus, Turner was known for his dedication to his constituents, particularly on issues like healthcare. Just hours before his passing, he shared a video on social media advocating for Medicaid, stating, “Don’t mess with Medicaid.”
Tributes and Impact
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries called Turner an “iconic leader” and “a fighter until the end.” Jeffries noted that Turner was present at the congressional address to ensure a constituent’s concerns about Medicaid were heard.
President Joe Biden expressed his condolences, calling Turner a “remarkable Congressman, Mayor, father, and grandfather.” He added, “Jill and I are saddened by his passing and send our deepest condolences to Sylvester’s family and his beloved Houston community.”
Lawmakers from both parties honored Turner’s legacy. Texas Republican Rep. Mike McCaul said he was “deeply saddened” by Turner’s death, acknowledging his service to Houston and his constituents. Speaker Mike Johnson echoed those sentiments, stating that Turner “served his community faithfully, not only as a member of Congress, but as a former state legislator and mayor.”
Congressional Impact and Special Election
Turner’s death slightly shifts the balance of power in the House, leaving Republicans with a narrow 218-214 majority. Under Texas law, Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, must call a special election to fill the vacancy, but the process could take several months.
As Houston and the nation mourn his loss, Turner leaves behind a legacy of leadership, advocacy, and dedication to public service.
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