Booker Statement on the Passing of Rep. Donald Payne Jr.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) issued the following statement:

"I'm heartbroken at the loss of Rep. Donald Payne, Jr. Like his father before him, Donald was a trailblazing figure in our civic institutions, dedicating his career to the soul-feeding work of serving others. Over the almost three decades I knew Donald, he was a dear friend and a powerful colleague in Newark and in Washington. He was never about adulation or applause; the cause of his life was fighting for dignity, security, and opportunity for all people.

"A lifelong Newarker, he never forgot where he came from or the people he represented. From the city council chambers to the halls of Congress, he fought to make life better for working families, whether through stronger schools, safer streets, affordable healthcare, or reliable transportation. He was indispensable in making sure we prioritize the Gateway Program and other critical investments in our New Jersey infrastructure that will pay dividends for generations to come.

"Donald was a source of friendship, inspiration, and strength to me for many years, and I'm proud of the extraordinary legacy he leaves behind in the seat his father once held. We owe a debt of gratitude to Donald and his family. They are in my thoughts."