New Jersey Rep. Bill Pascrell (D) has died. Pascrell, 87, served the state’s 9th Congressional District. He had been in office since 1997, making him one of the longest-serving members of the House of Representatives.
Known in particular for his strong advocacy on issues related to health care, veterans’ affairs and tax policy, Pascrell served on the House Ways and Means Committee. He was hospitalized in July for a respiratory infection. Earlier this month, he was transferred to a rehabilitation facility, but he was recently transferred back to the hospital.
“It is with deep sadness that we announce that Bill Pascrell Jr., our beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away this morning. 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,” a statement from his official X account reads.
Pascrell had been particularly vocal about expanding health care access, protecting Social Security and Medicare and supporting Obamacare. He was also a prominent critic of Republican tax policies, arguing that they disproportionately benefit the wealthy at the expense of middle and working-class Americans.
Well-known for his outspoken and sometimes combative style, Pascrell often used strong language to criticize his political opponents. He represented a heavily Democratic district, which allowed him to take progressive stances without much risk of losing his seat.
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