NEW YORK – Upon the passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, House Democratic Caucus Chairman Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) released the following statement:

“Tonight, our nation mourns the loss of a brilliant jurist, trailblazer for equality and fearless advocate for gender, racial and social justice. Justice Ginsburg’s native Brooklyn mourns the loss of its favorite daughter, whose grit and courage have forever left their mark on America. 

Justice Ginsburg occupies a singular place in history for her life’s work defending our Constitution and ensuring our laws meet the promise and values of our great nation. She used her voice time and again to defend the Constitution and uphold our democracy for all Americans, especially the least, the lost and the left behind among us. The U.S. Senate must uphold that legacy by allowing the American people their say in who will appoint her successor on the Supreme Court. This was Justice Ginsburg’s most fervent wish because nothing less than the integrity of our democracy is at stake. 

Debt of gratitude does not even begin to describe what the American people owe Justice Ginsburg for her lifetime of service and fierce advocacy. May her transition be guided by the prayers of a thankful nation and may her memory continue to be a blessing.”