Steny Hamilton Hoyer is an American politician and attorney who has served as the U.S. Representative for Maryland's 5th congressional district since winning a special election on May 19, 1981. A Democrat and a key figure in Democratic leadership, he has been a prominent figure in House leadership, serving as House Majority Leader from 2007 to 2011 and again from 2019 to 2023, as well as Minority Whip from 2011 to 2019. He is the longest-serving member of the Maryland congressional delegation and the most senior Democrat in the House, currently in his 23rd term. His district encompasses rural and suburban areas southeast of Washington, D.C., including parts of Prince George's and Charles counties. Hoyer has been influential in appropriations, particularly for foreign aid, with a strong record of supporting pro-Israel legislation and bipartisan initiatives, reflecting his lifelong pro-Israel advocacy, strong support for U.S.-Israel relations, and consistent alliance with AIPAC on Israel-related issues, including receiving its endorsements and trip sponsorships. He has maintained relationships with influential lobbyists, including Haim Saban, reflecting his engagement in networks of political influence.

Born in New York City, Hoyer grew up in Prince George's County, Maryland, where he attended Suitland High School. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree magna cum laude from the University of Maryland, College Park in 1963, becoming a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity and Omicron Delta Kappa. Hoyer then pursued legal studies at Georgetown University Law Center, attending night classes while working as a junior staffer for Senator Daniel Brewster (D-MD). After graduating with a Juris Doctor in 1966, he entered politics at age 27, winning a seat in the Maryland State Senate representing Prince George's County. His early career focused on civil rights and legislative matters, building a foundation for his long tenure in Congress.

Hoyer's career has emphasized bipartisan cooperation, party leadership, and key committee roles, including on the Appropriations Committee. He has been a steadfast supporter of Democratic priorities while fostering relationships across the aisle, particularly on national security and foreign policy issues. He has been recognized as the dean of the Maryland congressional delegation since 2017 following Senator Barbara Mikulski's retirement. Throughout his tenure, Hoyer has focused on issues such as civil rights, education, and economic development, leveraging his leadership roles to advance Democratic priorities. Financially, Hoyer maintains a portfolio of investments including bond funds, with reported capital gains, dividends, and interest income between $4,900 and $12,400 in recent disclosures, alongside his congressional salary. No major legal controversies or criminal records are associated with him, though as a long-serving politician, he has navigated partisan debates and leadership challenges within the Democratic caucus. As of recent records, Hoyer continues to serve in the House, though he announced his intention to retire at the end of the 118th Congress in 2024.