Congressman Steny Hoyer to Receive Charles T. Manatt Democracy Award for Lifetime Achievement

Honoring a Lifelong Advocate of Democracy: Congressman Steny Hoyer

On November 30, 2026, the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) is set to honor U.S. Representative Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD) with the prestigious Charles T. Manatt Democracy Award for Lifetime Achievement. This event will occur during the annual Democracy Celebration at the Patterson Mansion in Washington, D.C.

Congressman Hoyer, who has dedicated almost 20 years to the IFES Board of Directors, exemplifies the type of principled leadership and commitment to public service that this award celebrates. Peter McPherson, Chair of the IFES Board, emphasized that Hoyer’s contributions transcend partisan lines, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts in strengthening democratic institutions. "Steny Hoyer exemplifies the principled leadership and commitment to public service that the Manatt Democracy Award was established to recognize," McPherson remarked.

During the event, Hoyer will engage in a fireside chat with U.S. Representative Don Bacon (R-NE). This discussion will tackle the pivotal themes of bipartisan leadership, the deterioration of democracy in various parts of the world, and the United States' role in bolstering democratic institutions and promoting free elections globally.

Reflecting on the significance of receiving an award named after Charles T. Manatt, a cherished friend and former U.S. Ambassador, Hoyer stated, "I am honored to receive an award bearing the name of Charles 'Chuck' Manatt, a dear friend whose championing of democracy I was privileged to witness firsthand." He believes that democracy necessitates an active commitment to the principles and institutions that uphold it.

Hoyer has been a vocal advocate for democratic governance and human rights throughout his career. As a former House Majority Leader, his influence extends beyond domestic issues into international relations, where he has persistently supported strong partnerships with democratic nations. His leadership mirrors the legacy of Charles T. Manatt, whose dedication to effective bipartisan cooperation inspired the establishment of this award.

Congressman Bacon, known for his background as a retired U.S. Air Force brigadier general, will join Hoyer as they navigate the vital notion of principled disagreement and the necessity of cooperation across political divides. "Democracy requires not the absence of political differences," Bacon stated, "but our willingness to work together despite them." This acknowledgment of shared goals illustrates the fundamental belief that supporting democracy is a responsibility everyone must uphold, regardless of party affiliation.

Ambassador Tod Sedgwick, another Co-Chair of the IFES Board of Directors, highlighted the power of uniting figures from different political backgrounds. "At a time when political divisions too often dominate public conversation, this evening serves as a powerful reminder of what unites us," Sedgwick noted. The pairing of Congressman Hoyer and Congressman Bacon represents a tradition of American leadership rooted in mutual respect for democracy and collaboration, reaffirming that the cause of freedom transcends party lines.

Event Information

The Charles T. Manatt Democracy Award Ceremony will take place at the Patterson Mansion in Washington, D.C. on November 30, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM. This event is expected to draw significant attention as it highlights the importance of democratic values and showcases leaders committed to fostering those principles across partisan divisions.

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities can be accessed through the official IFES website, ensuring a broad participation in celebrating democratic leadership and the values of public service that Congressman Hoyer represents.