Long-Time New Jersey Lawmaker Has Died

Long-time New Jersey lawmaker Bill Pascrell Jr. has died at 87, leaving behind a significant legacy in the House of Representatives.

At a Glance

New Jersey Democratic Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr. died at 87.
Pascrell was a 14-term incumbent and a prominent figure in Paterson, NJ.
He passed away at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston, NJ.
President Joe Biden praised Pascrell as a devoted patriot and leader.

Long-Time New Jersey Lawmaker Dies at 87

New Jersey Democratic Representative Bill Pascrell Jr. has passed away at the age of 87. Pascrell, a 14-term incumbent, was a prominent figure in Paterson, NJ. He had served the people of the 9th District since 1997. The congressman died at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston, NJ, where he had been hospitalized due to illness.

Pascrell had been planning to run for a 15th term this fall. President Joe Biden praised him as “a devoted patriot, a gentleman, and an exemplary leader.” Pascrell’s career was marked by his advocacy for emergency responders and his authorship of the Firefighter Investment and Response Enhancement Act.

Bill Pascrell Jr., long-time New Jersey congressman, dies at 87 https://t.co/3oDcTDLTBe

— The Associated Press (@AP) August 22, 2024

A Prominent Political Career

Bill Pascrell, known for his dedication to Paterson, NJ, served as the city’s mayor from 1990 to 1996 before being elected to Congress. He played a key role in getting the Great Falls recognized as a national historical park. Pascrell also served on the House Ways and Means Committee and was vocal in supporting aid after Superstorm Sandy in 2012.

Pascrell was a lifelong Paterson resident, served in the Army, and worked as a teacher. He was known for coaching the Democratic team in the congressional baseball game and had a strong passion for baseball. Pascrell was also known for his sharp criticisms of Trump in his later years.

Legacy and Tributes

Bill Pascrell’s family announced his death on social media, noting his dedication to his job and love for Paterson, NJ. Pascrell’s political career included serving on various House committees and leading the fight for access to Trump’s tax returns. He is survived by his wife Elsie Marie Botto, three children, and five grandchildren.

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…

— Bill Pascrell, Jr. 🇺🇸🇺🇦 (@BillPascrell) August 21, 2024

Bill Pascrell was the second-oldest House member and the second New Jersey congressman to die in 2024. Democratic committees in Pascrell’s district will hold a convention to name a successor and pick a new candidate for the November ballot. Biden remarked in his tribute that Pascrell was a “beloved bridge-builder and champion for working-class people.”