East Orange Mayor Ted Green issued the following statement on the death of Rep. Donald M. Payne, Jr.:
“The passing of U.S. Representative Donald M. Payne, Jr. is a huge loss to the City of East Orange and the people of the State of New Jersey for whom he faithfully served throughout his lifetime as a community servant.
Picking up the torch from his political trailblazing father, the late Rep. Donald Payne, Sr., Congressman Payne blazed a trail of his own. From his time as President of the South Ward Young Democrats to his six-term tenure representing the Congressional 10th District, Congressman Payne was a dedicated leader who advocated on behalf of working families and improving the quality of life for all.
Humble, jovial, compassionate, and consistent, Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. was a native son of Newark, however, East Orange was his second home. Always a friend to our city, Congressman Payne supported a progressive agenda that included clean water, infrastructure, equal rights, reproductive freedom, free college tuition, gun control and so much more.
Every time I went to Washington, D.C., his door was always open. He cared immensely for his constituents and his sense of humor and affability were as distinctive as his bow ties and dimpled smile. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Congressman Payne’s assistance to the people of East Orange was immeasurable. I am forever grateful to him for his friendship, his kindness and the legacy that he has left behind.
Just a month ago, Congressman Payne attended my 6th Annual Mayor’s Gala and took time to “pour” into my grandson, a moment that I am sure lil’ Cameron will remember for the rest of his life. That’s who he was – a member of our village who rose by lifting up others. On behalf of the City of East Orange, my wife June and I extend heartfelt condolences to his wife Beatrice, their three children, uncle William, and the entire Payne Family during this difficult time.”