HOUSTON — Democratic U.S. Representative Sylvester Turner of Texas passed away, only two months into his term, shortly after attending President Donald Trump’s address to Congress in Washington, D.C. The 70-year-old’s death was confirmed by both official sources and his family on Wednesday.
Turner, who was present at Trump’s speech, experienced health issues leading to hospitalization, though he was later discharged, according to a statement from his family. On Wednesday morning, at approximately 5:45 a.m., Turner passed away at his residence due to ongoing health complications, said his family, without specifying details. In November 2022, he had shared that he underwent treatment, including surgery and radiation, for bone cancer in his jaw earlier that year.
The family expressed their gratitude for the support and affection shown to Turner, whom they cherished as a father, grandfather, sibling, and relative. “Congressman Turner was the consummate public servant,” the family noted in their statement.
House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries described Turner’s unexpected passing as a deep loss, emphasizing his commitment to public service and the people of Houston, despite his brief tenure in Congress. Before his congressional position, Turner served two terms as the mayor of Houston.
During a Houston City Council meeting, Mayor John Whitmire announced Turner’s death, remarking on the profound shock it caused. “I’ve lost a personal friend, advisor, and we’ve lost an outstanding public official,” Whitmire stated with sorrow.
Prior to President Trump’s address, Turner had shared a social media video, introducing his guest for the event, a mother from Houston, and issued a clear message to the current administration: “Don’t mess with Medicaid.” According to Whitmire, Turner began feeling unwell during the speech and was subsequently taken to the hospital upon returning home.
Reflecting on their last encounter on Saturday at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo parade, Whitmire recalled Turner appearing in good health. Texas Governor Greg Abbott paid tribute to Turner, lauding him as a man of character dedicated to serving Texans for over 36 years.
Abbott emphasized that “Congressman Turner leaves behind a legacy of service to our great state.” Elected in November, Turner filled the congressional seat vacated by the late U.S. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee, who passed away from pancreatic cancer in July.
Turner’s eight-year mayoral stretch involved steering America’s fourth-largest city through significant challenges, including the catastrophic Hurricane Harvey floodings in 2017. Before his mayoral role, Turner had a long-standing political career, serving 27 years in the Texas House of Representatives.
The Texas House Democrats remembered Turner as a staunch advocate for working families, infrastructure, and economic opportunities in Texas. Texas House Democratic Caucus Chair Gene Wu echoed Turner’s impact, highlighting his wisdom, integrity, and vision that will inspire future generations striving for a just and equitable Texas.
Born in Houston’s historic Acres Homes neighborhood, Turner’s life trajectory included degrees from the University of Houston and Harvard Law School, followed by a successful career as a trial lawyer and founding his own law firm. His political journey began with his election to the Texas House in 1988, preceding his eventual election as Houston mayor in 2015.
Mayor Whitmire fondly remembered Turner, noting, “Sylvester never forgot where he came from. So, that will be my memory of him. I also will always remember he could light up a crowd.”
