JUST IN: Longtime Democrat Congressional Leader Is Recovering After Suffering A Stroke

U.S. Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-MD) suffered a “mild stroke” over the weekend and is recovering, his office announced in a statement Tuesday.

Margaret Mulkerrin, Hoyer’s deputy chief of staff and spokesperson, announced that the high-ranking Democrat suffered a “mild ischemic stroke” and immediately sought medical treatment.

“Mr. Hoyer has responded well to treatment and has no lingering symptoms.  He expects to resume his normal schedule next week,” Mulkerrin said in a statement. “Mr. Hoyer’s wife and family extend their deepest thanks to his medical team.”

The potential cause of the stroke has not been revealed as of this report.

Hoyer, 85, has served in Congress since 1981. In January, he pushed back on the notion of retirement and announced his plans to run for re-election in the fall.

“I believe I have more work to complete on behalf of my district, my state and my country,” he said in a statement 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.”

For 20 years, Hoyer was the second most powerful Democrat in the U.S. House of Representatives, outranked only by longtime caucus leader and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA). Throughout his long tenure, Hoyer has twice served as House Majority Leader and twice served as House Minority Whip.

Hoyer announced that he would be stepping down from leadership in 2023, paving the way for U.S. Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY).

The Maryland congressman is currently the most senior Democrat in the U.S. House.