BOWIE, Md. – U.S. Reps. Steny Hoyer and Jerrold Nadler, two prominent Democrats in Congress, are set to retire when their terms come to an end in January. However, their influence on Washington is expected to continue as they pass the torch to their successors.
On Tuesday night, both representatives endorsed former aides who emerged victorious in the Democratic primaries to take their places on Capitol Hill. Given that both districts are predominantly Democratic, these candidates are virtually assured of winning in November and taking over the roles of their former mentors.
This practice of endorsing successors has become increasingly common among lawmakers, with Hoyer and Nadler joining a group of at least five others who have opted to support former staffers in their bids for Congress. Across the nation, more than a dozen departing legislators have worked to facilitate the ascent of their chosen replacements, reflecting a trend seen among 68 members of Congress who are not seeking reelection this year.
While this handoff can sometimes stir controversy—especially when lawmakers time their announcements strategically to favor their chosen candidates—it often resonates with voters who appreciate the recommendation of their current representatives. This dynamic was evident in the case of Natasha Greensword, a 45-year-old Maryland resident who supported Adrian Boafo in the Democratic primary, influenced in part by Hoyer’s endorsement. Greensword remarked, “It was a plus,” noting the importance of Hoyer’s backing given the racial dynamics of the race.
“It did help him to have a white man endorsing a Black candidate and saying he’s got our backs,” she added, highlighting how endorsements can bolster a candidate’s image, particularly for those who may not be well known in their districts.
However, endorsements can backfire, especially in an environment where anti-incumbent sentiment is prevalent. Norma James, a 64-year-old voter, indicated that she intentionally overlooked Boafo, stating, “If Steny was endorsing him, he’s not the one you want.” This sentiment showcases the complexities and risks associated with political endorsements.
When it comes to retirement, some lawmakers choose to maintain discretion regarding their preferences for successors, while others are more overt in their support. The case of Democratic Rep. Jesus “Chuy” Garcia of Illinois illustrates this point. Garcia faced criticism for his tactics after endorsing his chief of staff, who subsequently ran unopposed and secured a primary victory, leading to allegations of election manipulation.
In contrast, other lawmakers, such as Rep. Danny Davis from Illinois, have taken a less aggressive approach, openly supporting their preferred candidates without guaranteeing their success. Despite Davis’s backing, state Rep. La Shawn Ford faced a crowded field and narrowly claimed victory in the primary.
In California, Rep. Julia Brownley quickly endorsed Jacqui Irwin, allowing her to advance to the general election despite facing competition in the primary.
Both Hoyer and Nadler have demonstrated their commitment to shaping the future of their respective districts. Hoyer, at 87, has been a fixture in House leadership, while 79-year-old Nadler has served as the top Democrat on the House Judiciary Committee for over three decades. Their decisions to retire reflect a broader movement within the Democratic Party, where younger voters seek to replace aging leaders.
Hoyer endorsed his former campaign manager, Boafo, in an impressive field of 24 candidates. Following his primary win, Boafo expressed gratitude for Hoyer’s mentorship, stating, “Tonight, the Democratic voters of the 5th Congressional District decided that it’s time to pass the torch to a new generation of leaders.”
Nadler’s endorsement of state Assemblyman Micah Lasher, another former aide, further illustrates this trend. Lasher emphasized the profound influence Nadler has had on his life and political career, saying, “When I was born, I was already Assemblyman Nadler’s constituent.”
As these transitions unfold, it remains to be seen how effectively the new leaders will carry on the legacies of Hoyer and Nadler, and whether they will resonate with constituents eager for change.
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Cooper reported from Phoenix.
