Assemblywomen Eliana Pintor-Marin and Shanique Speight issued the following statement on the death of Rep. Donald Payne, Jr.:
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Congressman Donald M. Payne Jr., a fellow Newark native, a leader in Essex County, and a brother. From his beginnings as President of the South Ward Young Democrats to his roles as Essex County Freeholder-At-Large, At-Large Councilman, and Council President for the City of Newark, Congressman Payne’s trajectory was marked by a commitment to progress.
“As a six-term Congressman, Donald Payne Jr. was highly effective, consistently advocating for his constituents and championing causes that mattered most to them. His passion for social justice defined his tenure in office.
“May his memory be a blessing, and may we honor his legacy by continuing his work in the pursuit of a better future for all New Jerseyans. Our prayers go out to his wife Beatrice, his children, and the Payne family during this difficult time.”