The ‘Confrontational’ nature of GOP is the most significant change in the US House

• StenyHoyer spoke about his time as a leader as he prepares the handover.
• In a Washington Post interview, he lamented about the “confrontational” nature of some Republicans within the chamber.
• Hoyer will step down as House Leader, but he will still be there in January 2023.

Outgoing Democratic House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, who has long enjoyed strong relationships across the political aisle, said in a recent interview that the “biggest change” he’s noticed in the lower chamber is the more “confrontational” nature of Republicans.

Hoyer, a Marylander who served in Congress from 1981 to 1981, is often the first Democratic approached by top Republicans seeking to cut deals on different pieces of legislation.

But in an interview with the The Washington Post, Hoyer — who will step back from leadership but remain in the House in January — was remarkably candid about the toll that partisanship has taken in a chamber where he is always looking to forge bipartisan consensus.

He stated that the most significant change in the institution was the confrontational nature of the Republicans.

Hoyer, who was the lead sponsor for the Americans With Disabilities Act in 1990, worked with Steve Barrett, a Texas Republican, and George H.W. Bush to pass the broad legislation. 

However, governing became more difficult after the former GOP House Speakers John Boehner from Ohio and Paul Ryan from Wisconsin failed to contain the most extreme elements within their party.

Hoyer stated, “That’s the greatest change,” while also pointing out the events of January 6, 2021.