Hello everyone, today we remember the life and legacy of U.S. Representative Bill Pascrell Jr., a dedicated public servant who passed away earlier this morning at the age of 87. The news was announced by his family, who expressed their deep sadness and shared how much he cherished his role as a representative for the people of New Jersey’s 9th congressional district.
Born and raised in Paterson, New Jersey, Pascrell was deeply connected to his hometown, where he lived his entire life. His early years in a blue-collar family shaped his strong political values, which he carried throughout his long and impactful career in public service. After earning a bachelor’s degree in journalism and a master’s degree in philosophy from Fordham University, Pascrell entered the world of politics, where he would leave an indelible mark.
Pascrell’s political journey began at the local level, serving in the New Jersey General Assembly from 1988 to 1996 before becoming the mayor of Paterson. His leadership in Paterson and his deep commitment to the community paved the way for his election to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1997, where he served for over two decades.
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
Throughout his tenure, Pascrell was known for his fiery spirit and unwavering dedication to the issues that mattered most to his constituents. He was a passionate advocate for tax reform, pushing for policies that supported middle and lower-income families while seeking to close loopholes that favored the wealthy and large corporations. Healthcare reform was another cornerstone of his legislative work, and he was a strong supporter of the Affordable Care Act, which he saw as a crucial step towards achieving universal healthcare.
Pascrell’s commitment to veterans was evident in his consistent support for legislation aimed at improving services and benefits for veterans and their families. His work on the Ways and Means Committee, the oldest committee in the U.S. Congress, allowed him to influence key policies on tax, social security, and Medicare, impacting not just his constituents but the entire nation.
In the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, Pascrell played a critical role in securing federal funding to enhance first responder preparedness and capabilities across the country. His commitment to public safety and emergency response was a reflection of his roots in Paterson, where he always remained connected to the needs of his community.
Pascrell was also unafraid to tackle national and international issues. He was a vocal critic of policies that he believed undermined democracy and human rights, both at home and abroad. His forthright style and willingness to speak out against corruption and abuse of power made him a prominent voice within the Democratic Party.
Throughout his career, Pascrell was more than just a congressman; he was a constant presence in his district, regularly engaging with his constituents, attending local events, and working tirelessly to address the needs of the communities he served.
