Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr., Veteran New Jersey Democrat, Dies at 87

Bill Pascrell Jr., a veteran Democratic congressman from New Jersey, passed away on August 21, 2024, at the age of 87. The announcement came via his social media account, though the specific cause and location of his death were not disclosed. Pascrell had been hospitalized for several weeks due to a respiratory infection and fever, following a heart bypass surgery in 2020.

Pascrell's political journey began in the classrooms of New Jersey, where he taught high school for 12 years. His transition to politics saw him serve as a state assemblyman and mayor of Paterson before his election to Congress in 1996. Over his 28-year tenure in Washington, Pascrell established himself as a staunch liberal, advocating for environmental causes and supporting President Biden's legislative agenda.

As chairman of the House Ways and Means subcommittee on oversight, Pascrell played a crucial role in the campaign to access former President Trump's tax returns. His efforts, along with those of his Democratic colleagues, eventually led to the acquisition of six years of Trump's financial records.

Pascrell's political style was characterized by its directness and occasional combativeness. He was known for his candid remarks and willingness to engage in heated debates with political opponents. This approach was shaped by his upbringing in Paterson, where he was exposed to the rough-and-tumble nature of local politics from a young age.

Throughout his career, Pascrell championed various causes. He was a vocal advocate for first responders, securing federal funding for local fire and police departments. His efforts also led to the establishment of a national historical park centered around the Great Falls of the Passaic River, a landmark in his hometown of Paterson.

"The joy of Bill Pascrell is you never walked way from Bill Pascrell saying he was undecided"

William James Pascrell Jr. was born on January 25, 1937, in Paterson, New Jersey. He earned degrees in journalism and philosophy from Fordham University before embarking on his teaching career. In 1963, he married Elsie Marie Botto, with whom he had three children.

Pascrell's political career faced significant challenges, particularly during the 2012 redistricting that placed him in a primary contest against a fellow Democrat. Despite the odds, Pascrell emerged victorious, securing 61% of the vote.

In his later years, Pascrell embraced a role as an ally to younger colleagues, including progressive members of Congress. He joined in endorsing the Green New Deal and was welcomed as an honorary member of "The Squad" by Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

As the second-oldest member of the U.S. House of Representatives at the time of his death, Pascrell's passing marks the end of an era in New Jersey politics. His legacy as a fierce advocate for his constituents and a champion of liberal causes will undoubtedly be remembered in the halls of Congress and beyond.