Packed Race to Replace Retiring Maryland Rep. Steny Hoyer

Dozens of candidates from both parties vie for the open House seat after Hoyer's 40-year tenure.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 8:03pm

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After Rep. Steny Hoyer, a longtime Democratic congressman from Maryland, announced his retirement earlier this year, a crowded field of 24 Democrats, 3 Republicans, and 3 unaffiliated candidates have filed to run for his open House seat. Hoyer, who is 87 years old, was first elected to Congress in 1981 and is stepping down after over 40 years in office.

Why it matters

Hoyer's retirement marks the end of an era in Maryland politics, as he has been a fixture in the state's congressional delegation for decades. The packed race to replace him reflects the high stakes and intense competition for this open House seat, which could play a role in determining the balance of power in Congress.

The details

According to filings from the Maryland State Board of Elections, a total of 30 candidates have entered the race to replace Hoyer - 24 Democrats, 3 Republicans, and 3 unaffiliated candidates. However, 3 candidates have already dropped out of the race. Hoyer, who is 87 years old, announced earlier this year that he would not seek another term after being first elected to the House in 1981.

  • Hoyer announced his retirement earlier this year.
  • Hoyer was first elected to the House in 1981.

The players

Rep. Steny Hoyer

A longtime Democratic congressman from Maryland who is retiring after over 40 years in the House of Representatives.

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The takeaway

Hoyer's retirement after over four decades in Congress has set off a highly competitive race to replace him, with dozens of candidates from both parties vying for the open House seat. This race will be closely watched as it could impact the balance of power in Congress.