New Jersey Congressman Bill Pascrell Jr. Dies at 87 After Over Two Decades of Service

Political Giant DIES - Tributes Pour In!

New Jersey loses a political giant as Congressman Bill Pascrell Jr. dies at 87, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication.

At a Glance

Bill Pascrell Jr., a 14-term Democratic congressman from New Jersey, died at 87
Pascrell served over two decades in the House, known for his advocacy for emergency responders and working families
He was a lifelong Paterson resident, Army veteran, teacher, and former mayor
Pascrell’s passing marks the second New Jersey congressman to die in office this year

A Life of Service Comes to an End

New Jersey Congressman Bill Pascrell Jr., a stalwart of Democratic politics and a dedicated public servant, passed away at the age of 87. Pascrell died at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston, NJ, after a period of hospitalization due to respiratory illness. His family announced his passing, noting his unwavering commitment to his constituents and his beloved hometown of Paterson.

Pascrell’s political career spanned decades, starting from local school boards to the New Jersey General Assembly, then as mayor of Paterson, before his election to Congress in 1996. His 14 terms in the House of Representatives were marked by his fierce advocacy for working families, emergency responders, and his home state of New Jersey.

Longtime Congressman Bill Pascrell Jr. of New Jersey dies at 87 https://t.co/eyQBL9pQJ5 pic.twitter.com/L195nETPcH

— Eyewitness News (@ABC7NY) August 22, 2024

A Champion for the Working Class

Throughout his congressional career, Pascrell served on several key committees, including the influential House Ways and Means Committee. He was known for his work on legislation supporting firefighters, including the Firefighter Investment and Response Enhancement Act. Pascrell’s efforts extended to securing historical recognition for Paterson’s Great Falls and providing aid after Superstorm Sandy in 2012.

“Bill was a colleague and dear friend. I had the privilege of working with him for decades on issues ranging from the Fire Grants and Safety Act for the wellbeing of first responders and their families, to veterans’ medical care, international trade, tax fairness, labor unions, and so much more,” President Joe Biden said in a statement. “Over the course of our 30-year friendship, Bill defined himself as a devoted patriot, a gentleman, and an exemplary leader.”

Pascrell’s commitment to his constituents was unwavering. He was planning to run for a 15th term this fall, demonstrating his enduring dedication to public service even in his late 80s. His sharp criticism of political opponents, including former President Donald Trump, showcased his fearless approach to politics.

A Legacy Remembered

The passing of Congressman Pascrell marks the end of an era in New Jersey politics. He was the second-oldest serving member of the House and the second New Jersey congressman to die in office this year, following the death of Rep. Donald Payne Jr. His death leaves a significant void in the state’s political landscape and raises questions about potential special elections to fill his seat.

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

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

“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,” his family wrote in a statement posted on Pascrell’s X account.

As tributes pour in from colleagues and constituents alike, it’s clear that Congressman Bill Pascrell Jr.’s impact on New Jersey and national politics will be long-remembered. His dedication to public service, commitment to working families, and love for his home state have left an indelible mark on the political landscape.