Democrat Rep. Sylvester Turner (D-TX) died suddenly, mere weeks after taking office, the City of Houston confirmed Wednesday morning.
Turner, 70, won his seat in November, taking the place of the late Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX). He assumed office in January and is said to have attended President Donald Trump’s speech on Tuesday night. Prior to the speech, he posted on his X platform, warning against cuts to Medicaid.
According to CBS News, citing unnamed sources, Turner — who also served as the Mayor of Houston — began to feel “unwell” Tuesday night. The cause of his untimely death is not publicly known.
“This morning, @houmayor John Whitmire announced the death of former mayor, Congressman Sylvester Turner,” the City of Houston announced.
“A remarkable public servant who impacted millions of people,” Whitmire said. “He rose from poverty but never forgot where he came from. It is a terrible loss for the city and a personal loss for me. I ask Houstonians to celebrate his life.”
“They were together recently at a church service,” the update continued. “Today’s Houston City Council will stand in recess until 10 a.m.”
This morning, @houmayor John Whitmire announced the death of former mayor, Congressman SylvesterTurner.
— City of Houston (@HoustonTX) March 5, 2025
“A remarkable public servant who impacted millions of people. He rose from poverty but never forgot where he came from. It is a terrible loss for the city and a personal loss… pic.twitter.com/YtVMp3tzim
Others offered kind words in memory of Turner.
“Elisabeth and I are saddened to hear the news of Congressman Sylvester Turner’s passing,” Speaker of the Texas House Dustin Burrows said in a statement.
“His decades of public service—from the halls of the Legislature to Houston City Hall and, most recently, our nation’s Capitol—leave behind a legacy of leadership and advocacy for the people of Houston. Our condolences and prayers go out to his family, friends, and the entire Houston community during this difficult time. May he rest in peace,” he said as others joined in.
Elisabeth and I are saddened to hear the news of Congressman Sylvester Turner’s passing. His decades of public service—from the halls of the Legislature to Houston City Hall and, most recently, our nation’s Capitol—leave behind a legacy of leadership and advocacy for the people…
— Dustin Burrows (@Burrows4TX) March 5, 2025
.@SylvesterTurner wasn’t just a tremendous State Rep, Mayor and Congressman, he was a tremendous friend. He was passionate, extremely smart and respected by all who knew and worked with him. Texas lost a legend today. #txlege pic.twitter.com/ISorCs323M
— Craig Goldman (@GoldmanCraig) March 5, 2025
Brenda Gail and I are heartbroken by the passing of my friend Sylvester Turner. We served together in the Texas House, and I had the honor of working alongside him in Congress, even if only for a short time.
— Randy Weber (@TXRandy14) March 5, 2025
He was a devoted public servant who cared deeply for Houstonians. Just… https://t.co/A14RBS41WG
The Houston Police Officers’ Union mourns the loss of Congressman Sylvester Turner, a steadfast advocate for our city and former mayor of Houston. His unwavering commitment to public service and dedication to improving the lives of Houstonians will be deeply missed. Our thoughts…
— Houston Police Officers' Union (@HPOUTX) March 5, 2025
Emily and I are heartbroken by the passing of Former Houston Mayor and United States Congressman Sylvester Turner. His life was a testament to resilience, dedication, and unwavering service.
— Wesley Hunt (@WesleyHuntTX) March 5, 2025
Rising from humble beginnings, he never lost sight of where he came from or the people…
This story is developing.
