Sylvester Turner, congressman and former mayor of Houston, dies at 70

Democratic Congressman Sylvester Turner died Wednesday at the age of 70. The former Houston mayor was in the early months of his first term in Congress, representing Texas' 18th congressional district.

Born and raised in Houston's Acres Homes neighborhood, he studied law and began his political career in 1988 by winning a seat in the Texas House of Representatives, where he served for 27 years. He later served two terms as mayor of Houston from 2016 to 2024.

Two lawmakers quoted by NBC News confirmed that Turner passed away due to medical complications. His office stated that he "died peacefully" but did not provide further details. They promised to share information about funeral services soon.

People from across the political spectrum, locally, statewide and nationally, mourned the loss.

"I am heartbroken and devasted by the loss of this exceptional Houstonian and exceptional human being," said Lizzie Fletcher, also a Houston representative. "In his presence you could always feel the love for the city that we call home and for all the people who live here."

Congressman Turner was a man of character who served his fellow Texans for more than 36 years," said Texas Governor Greg Abbott. Houston's current mayor, John Whitmire, described him as a "remarkable public servant" in a statement from his office.

"He rose from poverty to meet with presidents, kings and queens. But here's what I want everybody to remember: He never forgot where he came from. That’s remarkable."

"Sylvester Turner dedicated his career to serving the community he loved. He was a remarkable Congressman, Mayor, father, and grandfather," said former President Joe Biden. "Sylvester Turner never shied away from tough issues, always reaching across the aisle to get things done. It was an honor to know him during his tenure as mayor," said businessman and former New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg.