Rep. Gregory W. Meeks Statement on the Passing of New Jersey Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr.

QUEENS, NY– Today, Congressman Gregory W. Meeks (NY-05) issued the following statement following the passing of his colleague and friend Representative Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10):

“I am deeply saddened to learn about the death of my dear friend and colleague Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. Don was a relentless advocate for the people of his beloved Tenth Congressional District of New Jersey, especially Newark where he fought for racial justice, equal rights, men’s healthcare, and women’s rights to reproductive freedom.

“We both have airports in our districts and often shared ideas on how we could make the airports economic engines for all who live around them. Don was a friend, who I first got to know when he served as Chairman of the Newark City Council. His father, the late Donald Payne Sr., was one of my mentors, and the reason why I now sit on the House Foreign Affairs Committee. 

“When Don came to Congress, he was able to hit the ground running. I was proud to give him some advice like his father gave me. Ever the communicator, Don was proud to earn the ‘John Lewis Award,’ for the most floor speeches for a record four quarters in a row and was working on his fifth before his untimely passing. He was a dedicated public servant, and his legacy will continue to motivate us all.

“I am sending my heartfelt condolences to Don’s wife Beatrice, their triplets Donald III, Jack, and Yvonne, extended family, and friends.”

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