By Ashlee Banks
Special to the AFRO
U.S. Rep. Sylvester Turner (D-Texas-18), a longtime public servant and former mayor of Houston, died on March 5 at the age of 70, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and advocacy that transformed the city he loved. His passing has drawn heartfelt tributes from colleagues across the political spectrum, who remember him as a tireless champion for justice, equality, and the well-being of his constituents.
U.S. Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.-8) is remembering Turner as an “iconic leader” who was “a fighter until the end.”
“The House Democratic Caucus family is shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of Congressman Sylvester Turner. Though he was newly elected to the Congress, Rep. Turner had a long and distinguished career in public service and spent decades fighting for the people of Houston,” the House minority leader said in a statement.
U.S. Rep. Yvette Clarke (D-N.Y.-9) said in a statement that she is “heartbroken” over the congressman’s death.
“Throughout his political career, he stood tall as a stalwart advocate for our nation’s most vulnerable peoples and the causes that mattered most to them,” said the Congressional Black Caucus chairwoman. “Whether you were an immigrant, a woman, a Black American fighting for your right to prosper, or a gay American fighting for your right to love, Sylvester Turner was proudly and resolutely in your corner. Truly, his name will stand among the annals of Texas’ greatest leaders.”
Turner’s career spanned decades, beginning in the Texas House of Representatives, where he served for 27 years before leading Houston as its 62nd mayor. In 2024, he was elected to represent Texas’ 18th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives, following in the footsteps of historic figures like Barbara Jordan and Sheila Jackson Lee.
Born and raised in Houston, Turner’s journey was one of perseverance and dedication. He earned his law degree from Harvard Law School before returning home to build a successful law practice that became a cornerstone of the community. His passion for public service led him to the Texas House of Representatives, where he was known for his leadership on the Appropriations Committee and his three-term tenure as Speaker Pro Tempore. Throughout his career, Turner fought for policies that improved education, expanded healthcare, and protected consumers, always keeping the needs of working families at the forefront of his legislative efforts.
His time as mayor of Houston cemented his reputation as a transformative leader. Serving two terms from 2016 to 2024, Turner guided the city through some of its most challenging moments, including Hurricane Harvey and the COVID-19 pandemic. Under his leadership, Houston made significant strides in infrastructure development, flood mitigation and affordable housing expansion. Turner’s administration also prioritized progressive policies that uplifted marginalized communities, ensuring that Houston remained a city of opportunity for all its residents. His leadership within the U.S. Conference of Mayors and the African American Mayors Association further highlighted his commitment to urban policy and equitable governance.
Turner’s transition to Congress was a natural continuation of his life’s work. Representing Texas’ 18th Congressional District, he took his advocacy to the national stage, securing a seat on the powerful Homeland Security and Science, Space, and Technology Committees. Even in his short time in Washington, his impact was undeniable.
Turner’s death comes at a time when Houston is still grieving the loss of another political giant, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, who died in 2024 after battling pancreatic cancer. She left behind a legacy of tireless advocacy and service to Houston, making Rep. Turner’s passing an even greater loss for the community.
Clarke acknowledged the profound impact of losing two towering figures in such a short span, noting that the next generation of leaders must carry forward their legacy of compassion and commitment.
“May the leader who follows in their footsteps share the compassion, commitment, and drive of these two true giants of Texas’ history,” she said. “And may Congressman Turner rest in power and rest in peace.”
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