Texas Democratic Rep. Sylvester Turner Dies at 70, Weeks After Taking Office
Former Houston Mayor and Congressman Passes Away Suddenly
Texas Democratic Rep. Sylvester Turner has passed away at the age of 70, just weeks after taking office. Turner, who previously served as Houston’s mayor from 2016 to 2024, was known for his dedication to public service and advocacy for vulnerable communities.
The city of Houston confirmed his death, and current Mayor John Whitmire called Turner a “remarkable public servant who impacted millions of people.”
“He rose from poverty but never forgot where he came from,” Whitmire said, calling Turner’s passing “a terrible loss for the city.”
Attended Trump’s Joint Address to Congress Before Falling Ill
Turner was present at former President Donald Trump’s joint address to Congress on Tuesday night before reportedly falling ill. A source said Turner began feeling unwell during the event, but the cause of death remains unclear.
Hours before his passing, Turner posted on X (formerly Twitter):
“My message to the current administration for tonight’s State of the Union: ‘Don’t mess with Medicaid.’”
Turner strongly opposed efforts to cut Medicaid, calling it a “betrayal of the most vulnerable among us.” He had brought Angela Hernandez, a constituent from Texas’ 18th Congressional District, as his guest to the speech. Hernandez was advocating for her daughter, Baislee Garcia, who has a rare genetic disorder, Chromosome 8p Inversion/Duplication/Deletion.
House Democrats Mourn Turner’s Death
House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries expressed shock and sadness over Turner’s sudden passing.
“Like those before him, Rep. Turner was a fighter until the end – he was present yesterday evening to ensure that the voice of one of his constituents, who relies on Medicaid, was heard,” Jeffries said.
“In what would be his final message, he reminded us: ‘Don’t mess with Medicaid.’ May he forever rest in power.“
Turner’s Legacy and Public Service
Turner won his congressional seat in November, following the passing of longtime Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee in July 2024. Like Turner, Jackson Lee also passed away while serving in office.
Born into a family of nine children, Turner attended the University of Houston and later graduated from Harvard Law School. His long career in public service spanned decades, from serving in the Texas House of Representativesto leading Houston as mayor.
Colleagues Pay Tribute to Turner
Texas Republican Rep. Brandon Weber mourned Turner’s death, recalling their recent conversation on the House Floor.
“Brenda Gail and I are heartbroken by the passing of my friend Sylvester Turner,” Weber wrote. “Just last night, we spoke on the House Floor—life is too short. We are praying for his family, friends, and all who are mourning his passing.”
Alabama Democrat Rep. Terri Sewell added:
“I’m saddened to hear of the passing of my colleague, Congressman Sylvester Turner. He leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of service as Mayor of Houston and Representative for Texas’ 18th Congressional District. May he Rest in Peace.“
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