HOUSTON, Texas–Longtime politician Sylvester Turner has passed away at the age of 70, the officials confirmed.
Turner’s passing occurred months after his victory in Texas’ 18th Congressional District race.
Turner began his public service career in 1988 when he was elected to the Texas House of Representatives, representing District 139.
He served for over two decades, earning re-election multiple times due to his dedication to his constituents.
Turner became known for his ability to navigate complex political issues while focusing on the needs of Houston residents.
In 2015, Turner was elected Mayor of Houston, where he served two terms. During his tenure, he led efforts to improve infrastructure, expand public transportation, and enhance public safety.
He played a key role in leading the city through natural disasters, particularly during Hurricane Harvey in 2017, where his leadership was widely praised for the effective response and rebuilding efforts.
As mayor, Turner focused on economic development and revitalizing underserved communities. He also supported green initiatives and renewable energy programs aimed at reducing Houston’s carbon footprint.
Turner ran for Congress in Texas’ 18th Congressional District and won. His election was seen as a continuation of his public service commitment, with his experience in Houston politics influencing his work on a national level.