Congressman Pallone Statement on the Passing of Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr.

LONG BRANCH, NJ - Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) released the following statement on the passing of Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr. (NJ-09):

"Bill Pascrell embodied the spirit of New Jersey. He was relentless fighting for his community. As a first son of Paterson, he never forgot where he came from, leaving an indelible mark on North Jersey as a mayor, a public-school teacher, an assemblyman, and a congressman who never, ever backed down from doing what was right. Bill was a fierce champion for the working class, always standing up for the little guy, fighting to ensure that New Jersey families got a fair shake-whether on the factory floor, in the classroom, or at the doctor's office. Beyond his dedication, Bill was one of the funniest, most entertaining people you could ever meet. He was my friend and I was his.

"I had the honor of serving alongside Bill for 27 years. I will deeply miss my friend and partner. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Elsie, their children, and grandchildren, who supported him through a life of public service and generously shared him with all of us. I also want to recognize his dedicated staff, who he considered his extended family, and who guided him through a distinguished career on Capitol Hill."