Tragic loss: Congressman and former Houston mayor Sylvester Turner dies at 70
Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner (Photo: Getty Images)
Just two months into his first term in Congress, Rep. Sylvester Turner, D-Texas, passed away Tuesday night following Donald Trump’s address to Congress, NBC reports.
Turner, who was sworn into office in January, suffered a medical emergency Tuesday afternoon in the underground tunnel connecting the Capitol and the Cannon Building. Lawmakers present immediately alerted Capitol Police, but efforts to assist him were unsuccessful.
Just hours before, Turner recorded a video with his guest, Angela Hernandez, a mother advocating for her daughter’s access to Medicaid.
“Don’t mess with Medicaid,” he urged in what would be his final message to his constituents.
House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries later confirmed Turner’s death, calling him an “iconic leader” and a “fighter until the end.”
Before joining Congress, Turner served as Houston’s mayor from 2016 to 2024, following a 27-year tenure in the Texas legislature. A Harvard Law School graduate and a dedicated public servant, he spent decades championing social programs and fighting for his community. Despite battling bone cancer in recent years, he remained committed to his mission.
Gone but never forgotten: Remembering those we’ve lost this year
This year has already seen the loss of many notable figures. Recently, Hollywood mourned actress Michelle Trachtenberg, whose passing shocked the industry.
The music industry also mourns the loss of the iconic Roberta Flack, a singer known for her mesmerizing voice that captivated millions.
The entertainment industry continues to grieve as well. Fans recently said goodbye to Marianne Faithfull, the British singer and actress who defined an era with her music and bold persona.
Additionally, the art and fashion world lost Jocelyn Wildenstein, a socialite whose dramatic transformation made her one of the most talked-about figures in modern celebrity culture.
