U.S. Reps. Steny Hoyer and Jerrold Nadler, two of the top Democrats in Congress, are retiring when their terms expire in January, but they will continue to make their imprints on Washington. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Associated Press.
On Tuesday, former aides to both congressmen won primaries in Maryland and New York. Maryland state delegate Adrian Boafo (D) won the Democratic primary in Hoyer's 5th District. He is a former Hoyer aide and state legislator. In New York, attorney Michael Lasher won the Democratic primary in Nadler's 12th District. Lasher is a former Nadler aide and former New York state legislator.
Boafo and Lasher are expected favorites in the November general election against Republican candidates in their districts. Both are expected to enter Congress in January.
Hoyer (86) has served in the House since 1981, was majority leader from 2007-2011 and 2019-2023. Nadler (78) has served in the House since 1992, chairman of the Judiciary Committee since 2019. He led the impeachment process against Donald Trump.
Boafo attributed his win to Hoyer's support: "Steny Hoyer's endorsement was very important for my campaign. He is my mentor and friend." Lasher on Nadler's support: "Jerry Nadler's support opened many doors for me. I am ready to continue his legacy."
The primary results show Hoyer and Nadler's influence in choosing their successors. Both congressmen actively supported their former aides. Hoyer introduced Boafo at the "AmeriPac" event, and Nadler supported Lasher at several campaign events.
In the November general election, Boafo will face Republican Chris Palombini, and Lasher will face Republican Michael Benjamin. Both districts lean Democratic, so Boafo and Lasher are expected to win.