Maryland Rep Steny Hoyer, 85, sparks concern after he suffers ‘mild ischemic stroke’

WASHINGTON, DC: Rep Steny Hoyer (D-Md) suffered a mild stroke on Sunday, August 11, and is currently in recovery, according to a report by CNN.

The 85-year-old Congressman is responding well to treatment and has no lingering symptoms of the health scare. According to a statement by his office, he is expected to return to his usual the following week.

The House of Representatives is presently in its August recess and not in session.

Steny Hoyer's office says he is responding well to treatment

“On Sunday night, August 11, Rep Steny Hoyer experienced a mild ischemic stroke and sought medical treatment,” Margaret Mulkerrin, deputy chief of staff and spokesperson for Steny Hoyer, shared in a statement.

"Mr Hoyer has responded well to treatment and has no lingering symptoms. He expects to resume his normal schedule next week. Mr Hoyer’s wife and family extend their deepest thanks to his medical team.”

Ischemic stroke is the most common type of the condition and is caused by blockage of a blood vessel in the brain.

Steny Hoyer's work in Congress

Steny Hoyer, who has served in Congress since 1981, said in January that he planned to run for reelection, reported Fox News.

"I believe I have more work to complete on behalf of my district, my state, and my country," he stated at the time.

"I am blessed to have the good health, strength, and enduring passion necessary to continue serving my constituents at this decisive moment for Maryland and America."

In 2022, Hoyer stepped down from leadership in Congress after serving as the Democratic majority leader. He was replaced by Rep Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY). He continues to represent Maryland’s 5th Congressional District.

Previously, Pennsylvania Dem Senate nominee John Fetterman had suffered an ischemic stroke on May 13, 2022, and had been hospitalized. In Fetterman's case, he was discharged on May 22 after a pacemaker and a defibrillator were put into him because he also had cardiomyopathy. Fetterman had long suffered from after-effects of the stroke but he then bounced back to take charge of his duties. 

Internet expresses concern about Steny Hoyer

After news outlets reported about Rep Steny Hoyer's condition, people took to X (formerly Twitter) to express their concerns about the Congressman.

Some were not on board with Hoyer continuing to serve in his advanced age and hoped he'd retire now after this health episode, while his coworkers wished him well. 

"Politics aside, my prayers for him and his family. If you have ever had a family member who suffered on, it is heartbreaking for all in the family," wrote one social media user. 

"Hope he’s ok. Hopefully he’ll retire now," expressed yet another.

Governor Larry Hogan tweeted, "Yumi and I are keeping Steny and the Hoyer family in our thoughts and prayers, and are glad to hear he is doing well. We wish him well as he recovers."

Senator Ben Cardin wrote, "Wishing my BFF @RepStenyHoyer all the best - thankful there are no lingering symptoms. Big thanks to the medical staff who took care of my friend. I speak from the heart saying that family, friends and fellow Marylanders are relieved he is on the mend."

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.