Long-time Democratic New Jersey Rep. Bill Pascrell dies at 87

Democratic New Jersey Rep. Bill Pascrell died on Wednesday at the age of 87, according to a statement from his family posted to social media.

Pascrell, who served 14 terms representing New Jersey's ninth district in Congress, had been hospitalized since July. Details on the cause of his death have not been revealed. 

"It is with deep sadness that we announce that Bill Pascrell Jr., our beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away this morning," his family wrote in a statement posted to X.  "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 his entire life in Paterson and had an unwavering love for the city he grew up in and served," the statement continued. "He is now at peace after a lifetime devoted to our great nation America."

Pascrell was first elected to the House in 1996, and was a member of the House Ways and Means committee. His death comes just over a month after Texas Democratic Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee died at the age of 74.  

The congressman is survived by his wife Elsie Marie Botto, three children, and five grandchildren, according to NBC News.

Misty Severi is an evening news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.