Hoyer Statement on the Retirement of Rep. Derek Kilmer

WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) issued the following statement after Congressman Derek Kilmer (WA-06) announced that he will not run for re-election in 2024:

“The Congress is going to lose a great legislator in Derek Kilmer.  From his time as one of my Assistant Whips to our ongoing cooperation on the Regional Leadership Council, it has been a privilege to work closely with Derek over the past ten years. I will be sad to see my dear friend retire from Congress at the end of this term. 

“I have witnessed Derek's many qualities firsthand over the years. He has a deep reverence for the institution we serve but also the vision to see how the People's House can better meet the challenges of the twenty-first century. That was apparent through his leadership on the Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress and our shared support for other forward-thinking initiatives.
 
“His high intellect, strong personal character, and positive demeanor have been an invaluable asset to the Regional Leadership Council. As Leader of Region 5, he has developed innovative strategies to implement the historic laws Democrats enacted last Congress and to inform the American people of their many positive impacts. He continues to build on the progress he made with his successful RECOMPETE Act to invest in communities that have long faced economic challenges. Not only our Council but our entire Congress has come to appreciate his collaborative approach to governing. 
 
“I wish Derek and his family well as he leaves one Washington to return to another. So long as the sun rises over the Cascades and sets over the Olympics, I know that Derek will continue to serve the people of Washington State.”