Rep. Bill Pascrell, a Democrat from Passaic County who dedicated over 25 years to representing New Jersey in Congress, passed away on Wednesday after a lengthy hospitalization. He was 87 years old.
His family released a heartfelt statement saying, “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.”
Pascrell had been hospitalized in mid-July due to a fever, requiring breathing assistance at one point. After spending three weeks in the hospital, he was initially discharged but returned to St. Joseph’s Hospital in Paterson shortly after.
Prior to his congressional career, which began in 1997, Pascrell served as the mayor of Paterson for seven years and spent nine years in the New Jersey General Assembly. He represented the 9th Congressional District, covering parts of Passaic, Bergen, and Hudson counties.
His family noted his lifelong dedication to Paterson, where he lived and served, stating, “Bill lived his entire life in Paterson and had an unwavering love for the city that he grew up in and served. He is now at peace after a lifetime devoted to our great nation.”
A former school teacher and U.S. Army veteran, Pascrell was one of Congress’s elder statesmen. He is survived by his wife, Elsie, as well as three children and five grandchildren.
Rep. Frank Pallone (D-06) expressed his sorrow, saying, “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.”
Pascrell was a prominent co-chair of the congressional law enforcement caucus and a vocal critic of former President Donald Trump. He often opposed Trump’s tax policies, specifically a cap on state and local tax deductions that adversely impacted New Jersey residents. He also called for investigations into Trump and Postmaster General Louis DeJoy regarding 2020 postal service changes and attempted to block congressional members supporting Trump’s efforts to challenge President Joe Biden’s election.
An advocate for first responders and veterans, Pascrell promoted legislation to extend grants for local fire departments for hiring, equipment, and fire prevention initiatives.
Rep. Tom Kean (R-07) expressed his condolences: “Today, we mourn the loss of a great friend and colleague, Congressman Bill Pascrell. Bill was a dedicated public servant, a tireless advocate for his constituents, and a passionate supporter of firefighters. We worked closely together on many issues. My deepest condolences go out to his family during this difficult time. Bill will be dearly missed.”
Pascrell’s passing will lead to a vacancy on the November ballot. The Democratic county committee members from the 9th District will need to select a candidate to replace him before the primary nominee deadline on August 29. The chosen Democrat will compete against Republican Billy Prempeh.
Despite the 9th District becoming more competitive after redistricting in late 2021, Democrats are still favored to win. Since Pascrell’s death occurred less than six months before the general election, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy is not obligated to call for a special election.
This loss follows the earlier passing of Rep. Donald Payne Jr. in April, who died after suffering a heart attack that left him in a coma.