Hoyer Statement on Retirement of Congressman Edolphus Towns

WASHINGTON, DC - House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today after Congressman Edolphus Towns (NY-10) announced he will not seek reelection: 

“Congressman Ed Towns has been a dedicated public servant and a tireless fighter for New Yorkers throughout his twenty-nine years in office.  After serving alongside him for so long and witnessing his passion for this country and especially for its students, I was saddened to learn of his decision to retire at the end of the 112th Congress. As a former educator, Ed recognizes the value of investing in education, in teachers, and in access to higher learning.  Following the attacks of September 11, he raised his voice on behalf of New York City’s communities exposed to toxic dust and debris.  As Chairman of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee last Congress, Ed made it his mission to ensure that our government lives up to Lincoln’s description – 'government of the people, by the people, and for the people.'  His voice and insights will be greatly missed in Congress and in our Democratic Caucus, and I join in wishing Ed, Gwen, and their family all the best as he embarks on the next steps in his career."