Houston, TX – Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee has passed away, succumbing to pancreatic cancer just over a month after revealing her diagnosis.
Lee, 74, had expressed optimism about her treatment and recovery. “I am confident that my doctors have developed the best possible plan to target my specific disease,” she said in a heartfelt statement on X. “The road ahead will not be easy, but I stand in faith that God will strengthen me.”
Since 1995, the indomitable Democrat represented Houston's Inner Loop in Congress. Her larger-than-life public persona and relentless advocacy elevated her profile to the national stage, making her a well-known political figure across the country.
A Champion for the People
Lee's family announced her passing with profound sorrow late Friday. “Today, with incredible grief for our loss yet deep gratitude for the life she shared with us, we announce the passing of U.S. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee of the 18th Congressional District of Texas. A fierce champion of the people, she was affectionately and simply known as ‘Congresswoman' by her constituents in recognition of her near-ubiquitous presence and service to their daily lives for more than 30 years.”
Bipartisan Condolences
Condolences have poured in from across the political spectrum, reflecting her broad impact and the respect gained from three decades of service in Congress.
I'm deeply saddened by the passing of my friend & colleague Sheila Jackson Lee.
— Ted Cruz (@tedcruz) July 20, 2024
She was a tireless advocate for Houston.
I will always cherish our friendship & the laughs we shared throughout the years.
Heidi & I offer our prayers and sincerest condolences to her family. pic.twitter.com/SGZhFQ8rHk
I have never known a harder-working political leader than Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, who studied every bill and every amendment with exactitude and then told Texas and America exactly where she stood.
— Rep. Jamie Raskin (@RepRaskin) July 20, 2024
Rest in Peace Sheila. She was always kind to me and sought to find common interests – mitigating flooding, improving our infrastructure, and helping veterans. She cared about Houston with all her heart and will be missed. https://t.co/6xflrR6nc6
— Dan Crenshaw (@DanCrenshawTX) July 20, 2024
Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee was a fierce advocate for Houston and her constituents. No one worked harder for her community and if Houston needed something, she got it done.
— Colin Allred (@ColinAllredTX) July 20, 2024
Her passing is a great loss and my condolences go to her family, friends and the people of Houston. pic.twitter.com/4CBOAVGQu9
READ NEXT: Vote Now – Who Would Be The Worst Nominee If Dems Go Nuclear?
It’s too bad that she didn’t get a chance to celebrate the 47th President, Donald J. Trump.