WASHINGTON (AP) – U.S. Representative Sylvester Turner of Texas has passed away just two months after being sworn into office. The news comes following his attendance at President Donald Trump's address to Congress in Washington, D.C. Officials confirmed that Turner died at the age of 70, on Wednesday morning, after being discharged from the hospital.
Linda Brown, Turner's spokesperson, stated that he had been taken to the hospital prior to his death. The cause of death remains unclear at this time, prompting an outpouring of condolences and shock from peers and constituents.
In a statement, House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries expressed the sorrow of the House Democratic Caucus family, stating, "The sudden passing of Congressman Sylvester Turner has shocked and saddened us all. Although he was newly elected, Rep. Turner had a long and distinguished career in public service, dedicating decades to fighting for the people of Houston."
Turner, who was elected in November 2022, filled the seat previously held by the late U.S. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee. Lee passed away last July after a battle with pancreatic cancer. Shortly before his election, Turner disclosed that he had undergone treatment earlier that year for bone cancer in his jaw, which included surgery and radiation therapy.
During his political career, Turner served as the mayor of Houston for eight years. His tenure included navigating complex challenges such as the devastation caused by Hurricane Harvey in 2017, which led to severe flooding in the city. Before ascending to the mayoral position, he spent 27 years in the Texas House of Representatives, where he established himself as a prominent figure in state politics.
As a leader, Turner was known for his commitment to public service and his community. His legacy as the mayor of the nation’s fourth-largest city is marked by his efforts to improve infrastructure, advocate for social issues, and manage disaster response.
Turner’s passing has left a significant impact on the community he served. Tributes have been pouring in as people reflect on his contributions and the qualities he displayed throughout his career. He is remembered not only as a politician but as a dedicated advocate for the people of Houston.
The sudden nature of his death, coming so soon after his election to Congress and amid his ongoing health battles, has stirred deep emotions among his colleagues and constituents alike. Turner's work and influence in local and national politics will continue to resonate in the community.
As tributes and remembrances continue to surface, the loss of Sylvester Turner marks not only the end of a chapter for those who knew him personally but also a significant moment in Texas and U.S. politics.
