It’s always wise to prepare for the unexpected in the world of politics. But no one was ready for this.
As tragedy strikes Washington, D.C. after the death of this Democrat.
Rep. Donald Payne Jr. (D-NJ) passed away on Wednesday after suffering a heart attack almost three weeks prior.
Payne entered a coma after the heart attack occurred. He was 65 years old at the time of his death.
Since 2012, Payne was a Democrat representative for New Jersey’s 10th Congressional District.
That district encompasses the cities of Newark and Orange.
His father, Donald Payne, passed away in 2012 and previously held the seat since 1989.
That led to the younger Payne winning a special election to take his father’s place.
During his time in the House, he was a co-chair of the Congressional Black Caucus and the Men’s Health Caucus. He also co-chaired the Colorectal Caucus.
New Jersey Governor Phill Murphy (D) released a statement to express his sympathies towards Payne.
“With his signature bowtie, big heart, and tenacious spirit, Donald embodied the very best of public service,” Murphy said.
“It was my great honor to work side-by-side with Donald to build a stronger and fairer New Jersey, and we will hold his memory close to our hearts as we build upon the Payne family’s deep legacy of service in advocating for the communities they served so dearly.”
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D) also expressed his sorrow over Payne’s passing, saying that he was “deeply saddened by the passing of Congressman Donald Payne Jr., a good friend, highly effective public servant and compassionate leader.”
“My prayers and support are with the Payne family and his loved ones during this difficult time. May he forever Rest in Peace.”
Rep. Payne was running in a June 4 primary but was unopposed. He was projected to likely win another term this November.
He was on a ventilator and in a coma at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center since April 6, which is the date that he had his heart attack, according to the New Jersey Globe.
Democrats will miss Donald Payne Jr.’s presence in Congress, no doubt.
The razor-thin majority that the Republicans have in the U.S. House has now grown slightly to 218-212.
However, that majority will likely grow as there are some special elections in largely red districts this year that GOP candidates are projected to win.
Stay tuned to The Federalist Wire.
