Representative Donald Payne Jr. (D-NJ), a progressive congressman serving his sixth term from New Jersey, has passed away at 65, as reported by the New Jersey Globe.
Payne experienced a heart attack on April 6 and had been unconscious and on a ventilator at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center since then. He had been grappling with various health issues, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and kidney problems, which required regular dialysis in recent years.
Despite initial reports suggesting a hopeful recovery, Payne’s condition appeared more severe than anticipated, with no signs of consciousness. Governor Phil Murphy of New Jersey confirmed Payne’s passing in a statement on Wednesday, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of a friend and dedicated advocate for the people of New Jersey.
Before his tenure in the U.S. House of Representatives, Payne Jr. was actively involved in local politics, serving on the Newark Municipal Council and later as the President of the Newark City Council. His political journey included a bid for an at-large seat on the Newark City Council in 2006, ultimately securing a council seat and later assuming the role of city council president in 2010.
In 2012, Payne successfully transitioned to Congress, focusing on critical issues such as transportation, education, and public safety, reflecting his commitment to enhancing infrastructure and services in his district.
Facing no opposition in the upcoming 2024 congressional election, Payne leaves behind his wife, Beatrice, and their triplets, Donald III, Jack, and Yvonne. He is also survived by his uncle, William Payne, and cousin, Craig Stanley, both former assemblymen from Essex County.
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