WASHINGTON  - House Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer (MD) announced Monday this week Terry Lierman, the current State Chairman of the Maryland Democratic Party, will join his office as his new Chief of Staff. Hoyer's current Chief of Staff, Bill Cable, is retiring on June 1 after 40 years of service and dedication to the Democratic Party.

Lierman has served as the State Chairman of the Maryland Democratic Party since 2004, following his role as National Finance Co-Chair on Howard Dean's presidential campaign. In 2000, Lierman ran as a challenger to Republican Rep. Connie Morella, coming within 6 points of winning the seat and paving the way for Morella's defeat two years later by Rep. Chris Van Hollen. As State Party Chairman, Lierman was instrumental in the 2006 election of Governor Martin O'Malley and Senator Ben Cardin. He also founded and directed Capitol Associates, a consulting firm focused on health issues and previously served as Staff Director for the Senate Committee on Appropriations.

"When someone I admire and have worked so well with over the years like Steny Hoyer calls, of course you say yes," Lierman said. "It is a terrific honor to be given this opportunity, and I very much look forward to working with Majority Leader Hoyer in this new position."

"I am sad that after 40 years of public service and dedication to the Democratic Party, Bill Cable has decided to retire at the end of this month," Hoyer said. "He has been an exceptional Chief of Staff, and I wish him all the best as he retires to spend more time with his wife and his grandson, Jackson."

"However, I am delighted that Terry Lierman has agreed to come on board," Hoyer added. "With his deep knowledge of national and Maryland state politics, as well as extensive policy experience, Terry's expertise will prove invaluable in serving Maryland's Fifth District and in managing the operations of the Majority Leader's office. I am confident that he will make a terrific Chief of Staff."

Cable began his career on the Hill 40 years ago, and then served as a Deputy Assistant to President Carter. He worked at Timmons and Company as Vice President and General Counsel for 17 years. Cable returned to the Hill several years ago to serve in several positions, including as Democratic Staff Director for the House Administration Committee under then-Ranking Democrat Hoyer and Administrative Counsel at the CAO. He became Hoyer's Chief of Staff in his Whip Office early last year.