Congressman Sylvester Turner Dies at 70 After Medical Emergency

WASHINGTON — Congressman Sylvester Turner, a Democrat from Texas and former mayor of Houston, died early Wednesday morning at the age of 70 following a medical emergency that occurred after President Donald Trump‘s address to Congress. House Democratic lawmakers were informed of his death shortly thereafter.

Turner’s death has been attributed to enduring health complications, as confirmed by his family. He had only recently taken the oath of office in January, having been elected to represent Texas’ 18th Congressional District.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., expressed his sorrow, describing Turner as an “iconic leader” and a “fighter until the end.” In a closed-door Democratic meeting, Jeffries conveyed the shocking news of Turner’s passing to his colleagues. “Though he was newly elected to Congress, Rep. Turner had a long and distinguished career in public service,” he said.

Witnesses reported that Turner appeared to be having a medical emergency just before Trump’s address, prompting Capitol Police to assist him. Prior to the event, several Democratic lawmakers saw or spoke with him on the House floor.

Just hours before his death, Turner shared a video on social media featuring a constituent, Angela Hernandez, advocating for Medicaid. “So please let people know, ‘Don’t mess with Medicaid,’” Turner said enthusiastically. Jeffries referenced this poignant message during his tribute, noting it as one of Turner’s final calls to his constituents.

Turner had a notable public service career, previously serving as Houston’s mayor from 2016 to 2024 and spending 27 years in the Texas House of Representatives. During his mayorship, he navigated significant challenges, including Hurricane Harvey and the COVID-19 pandemic.

After the announcement of his passing, tributes flooded social media from colleagues and politicians across the spectrum. Former President Joe Biden characterized Turner as a “remarkable Congressman, Mayor, father, and grandfather,” expressing condolences to his family and the Houston community.

Many local leaders echoed similar sentiments, with U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell, D-Ala., remembering Turner’s “extraordinary legacy” of service in both the mayoral and congressional roles. Rep. Mike McCaul, R-Texas, offered his remembrance of Turner as a dedicated public servant who stepped up for the late Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee’s seat.

The Republican Party now holds a narrow majority in Congress, and the vacancy left by Turner will necessitate a special election, which is expected to be called by Texas Governor Greg Abbott.

Turner’s family stated, “Congressman Turner was the consummate public servant. But to us, he was our beloved father, grandfather, sibling, and relative.” They requested privacy during this difficult time, adding that more information regarding funeral services would be announced soon.

Born in 1954 and raised in the Acres Homes neighborhood of Houston, Turner was taught the value of perseverance from his mother, who worked as a maid following the death of his father when he was 13. He graduated from the University of Houston and later from Harvard Law School, eventually co-founding Barnes & Turner, a law firm specializing in commercial and personal injury litigation.

As a prominent figure in Houston politics, Turner was known for his bipartisan leadership and focus on issues like public safety, infrastructure, and climate action during his tenure as mayor. He implemented initiatives such as the One Safe Houston program, aimed at reducing violent crime and increasing mental health services.

Throughout his career, Turner left a lasting impact on the Houston community and is remembered as a dedicated leader who championed justice, equity, and public service.