Pelosi and Hoyer: A Political Face-Off in Maryland’s Congressional Race
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is stepping into the ring against retiring Rep. Steny Hoyer in a contest that could signal the final chapter of their long-standing, often frosty, relationship. The stakes are high as Pelosi endorses Harry Dunn, a former Capitol Police officer known for his harrowing testimony about the January 6 riot, in the contentious primary to succeed Hoyer, according to insider details shared with POLITICO.
Pelosi, a seasoned political strategist hailing from a prominent Baltimore family, has praised Dunn’s bravery and leadership in the aftermath of the Capitol attack. “My friend Harry Dunn is a true American hero and exactly the right person to represent Maryland in Congress,” Pelosi stated. She elaborated on Dunn’s role in defending democracy against what she described as Donald Trump’s “violent MAGA mob,” highlighting his ongoing commitment to safeguard Marylanders and all Americans from extremist threats.
This endorsement marks another clash between Pelosi and Hoyer, who have historically backed different candidates—most notably during the 2022 gubernatorial race. Hoyer, who has served for over four decades and was once Pelosi’s second-in-command, is supporting his former political aide, state Del. Adrian Boafo, as he prepares to vacate his seat.
Dunn, who has only recently entered the race following Hoyer’s endorsement, raised an impressive $1 million within the first eight days of his campaign. Notably, he doesn’t currently reside in the 5th District, which stretches from the suburbs of Washington down to southern Maryland and includes Prince George’s County, where he was born. However, Dunn has expressed intentions to relocate back to the district if he secures the nomination. The Democratic primary is expected to be highly competitive, with at least a dozen candidates vying for the safely blue seat.
The rivalry between Pelosi and Hoyer serves as a remarkable reflection of their decades-long relationship, which began when they were interns on Capitol Hill. Their political battles have shaped the landscape of Democratic leadership, with notable victories and defeats that have defined their careers—Pelosi outmaneuvered Hoyer to become House Democratic whip in 2001, while Hoyer triumphed over Pelosi’s choice for majority leader in 2006. Yet, through it all, they have managed to foster a productive partnership within their caucus.
In an interview, Dunn commended Pelosi for her unwavering defense of democracy and her confrontations with Trump, drawing parallels to his own quest for accountability following the January 6 insurrection. “Anytime that somebody with the stature and political history [of] Nancy Pelosi puts their support behind me, it’s just like ‘wow,’” Dunn remarked. “It just means a lot to me and should resonate with those who recognize her effectiveness as a fighter.”
Despite a previous unsuccessful attempt to secure Maryland’s 3rd Congressional District in 2024—where he faced challenges from well-funded pro-Israel groups—Dunn’s determination to succeed in this new endeavor remains steadfast. His strong financial backing indicates considerable support as he rallies for the Hoyer seat.
Pelosi and Dunn have forged a close friendship since the January 6 events, where Dunn confronted Oath Keepers outside Pelosi’s office and endured racial attacks, experiences he has recounted in public hearings. He described their bond as one built on shared trauma and resilience. Dunn is also noted for participating in annual lunches with Pelosi and fellow officers every January 6, commemorating the day that has become a symbol of democratic fragility.
