CHICAGO, IL – Today, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries released the following statement: 

This morning, the Silk City, the Garden State and the United States of America lost a giant with the passing of our beloved brother Bill Pascrell, Jr. Throughout his decades of public service, Bill was a tenacious fighter for his native New Jersey, whether as a leader in the New Jersey General Assembly, Mayor of the City of Paterson or fourteen-term Member of the U.S. House.

For nearly two decades, Congressman Pascrell served on the powerful Ways and Means Committee where he quickly became a staunch advocate for tax fairness. Each and every day, Bill committed to ensuring the wealthy and powerful pay their fair share so that everyday Americans, like the people of his beloved hometown of Paterson, have a fair shot to get ahead. As the former top Democrat on the Subcommittee on Trade, Bill was a stalwart voice for workers and fought to make sure our nation’s trade policies put workers first. Bill also never wavered in his support for law enforcement officers and first responders. As a veteran of the United States Army and Army Reserve, Bill held veterans, servicemembers and military families close to his heart. 

Coach Pascrell was not only a major presence on the Congressional baseball diamond, he was also a mentor and adviser to me and so many Members of the House Democratic Caucus family. I join all House Democrats in praying for Bill’s wife, Elsie, his children and grandchildren and all those who loved him. He is leaving behind an incredible legacy in the state of New Jersey and the People’s House and will be greatly missed.

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