Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Sanford D Bishop Jr (GA-02)
WASHINGTON – Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr., a senior member of the U.S. House of Representatives and the Congressional Black Caucus, released the following statement in response to the news today that his colleague, Congressman Donald Payne, Jr., of New Jersey, had transitioned:
“Congressman Donald Payne, Jr., had the heart of a public servant and was a compassionate, affable soul who loved his family and his community. He was a good friend who also knew how to reach across the aisle to get the job done in Congress for his constituents and the American people.
“His mother died when he was young, and he was reared by his single father, the late Congressman Donald M. Payne, Sr. His father must have been beaming with pride when his son succeeded him in serving the people of New Jersey’s 10th District.
“Representing one of the most vibrant districts in the New York Metropolitan area – teeming with families, schools, and industries, as well as major ports, airports, highways, and railways – he had a strong command of the stakes at play when it came to America’s infrastructure and national security.
“As a member of the U.S. House Committee on Homeland Security, Congressman Payne authored and passed legislation to authorize security grants for nonprofit organizations such as schools, daycares, religious institutions, among others. Drawing on both his and his father’s health challenges, he was an ardent advocate for men’s health. In all that he did – whether it was in Newark City Hall or in the U.S. Congress – Donald worked tirelessly to improve the lives of Americans in New Jersey and across the country.
“My wife, Vivian, and I as well as the countless people whose lives he touched will miss him deeply and mourn his loss. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Congressman Payne’s wife, Beatrice, as well as their three children, Donald III, Yvonne, and Jack.”
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