New Jersey Congressman Passes Away After Decades in Office

At a Glance

New Jersey Democratic Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr. died at age 87.
Pascrell was a 14-term incumbent and prominent figure in Paterson, NJ.
He passed away at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston, NJ.
Pascrell had been hospitalized recently due to illness.
He was planning to run for a 15th term in the fall.

The Passing of Congressman Bill Pascrell Jr.

New Jersey’s long-serving Democratic Congressman, Bill Pascrell Jr., passed away at the age of 87. Pascrell died at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston, NJ, after being hospitalized due to an illness. His death marks the end of a prominent political career that spanned over two decades in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Pascrell was a key figure in New Jersey politics, revered for his dedication to healthcare, education, and public service. He was a 14-term incumbent and well-known in his hometown of Paterson, NJ. Pascrell was planning to run for a 15th term this fall, signifying his long-standing commitment to serving his community.

Rep Bill Pascrell Jr. dies at 87 https://t.co/QJ86Q1ksDb

— NorthJersey.com (@northjersey) August 22, 2024

A Life of Service and Achievements

Pascrell served on the House Ways and Means Committee, where he played a crucial role in important legislative measures. He was an advocate for emergency responders and was instrumental in the Firefighter Investment and Response Enhancement (FIRE) Act. Pascrell also championed the recognition of the Great Falls in Paterson as a national historical park.

“As our United States Representative, Bill fought to his last breath to return to the job he cherished and to the people he loved. Bill lived his entire life in Paterson and had an unwavering love for the city he grew up in and served. He is now at peace after a lifetime devoted to our great nation America,” Pascrell’s family stated.

His advocacy wasn’t limited to his district. Pascrell was vocal in supporting aid after Superstorm Sandy ravaged New Jersey in 2012. His commitment to public service was also evident in his passion for baseball, as he coached the Democratic team in the congressional baseball game.

Tributes and Legacy

Pascrell’s passing prompted tributes from various political figures. President Joe Biden praised Pascrell as “a devoted patriot, a gentleman, and an exemplary leader.” Democratic Governor Phil Murphy and Senator Cory Booker also lauded his dedication to diverse and vulnerable communities, acknowledging his decades-long service to New Jersey.

Other tributes highlighted Pascrell’s tenacity and his role as a firefighter’s advocate. Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco noted, “Bill wasn’t a Republican or a Democrat. He was an American and he fought for everyone, no matter who it was.” His lifelong commitment to Paterson, NJ, as a resident, Army veteran, teacher, and former mayor is a testament to his dedication.

Bill Pascrell Jr., long-time New Jersey congressman, dies at 87 https://t.co/pWX1SJza43

— WFMZ-TV 69News (@69News) August 22, 2024

The Road Ahead

Pascrell’s death leaves a significant void in New Jersey politics. It is yet to be determined if a special election will be held to fill his term, which ends in January. Democratic committees in his district will convene to name a successor and select a candidate for the November ballot. Funeral arrangements have not been announced, as the community mourns a respected and devoted leader.

“Bill fought to his last breath to return to the job he cherished and to the people he loved,” his family stated, embodying his unwavering dedication to public service. His lasting impact on national and local politics will not be forgotten.