Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of our beloved colleague, Donald M. Payne, Jr., of New Jersey's 10th District. He was born into a legacy of service but forged his own path. He was warm, witty, and a warrior--a happy one, but a warrior. A warrior for transportation justice, for workers' rights, for healthcare, for gun safety, for clean water. He never wavered in his exuberance for life or for this work. He was a prolific orator, especially on the House floor. I will always remember him smiling, nattily attired, wearing a colorful suit, bow tie, glasses, and sometimes a fedora that I would ask him to loan me. I will remember him heading to the House floor with purpose to speak on behalf of the people and the community that he loved. Mr. Speaker, Black men deserve to grow old. I am heartbroken as I consider consecutively and collectively the loss of Elijah, John, Alcee, Donald McEachin, and now our beloved Donald M. Payne, Jr. It breaks my heart that we are losing yet another member of our historic Congressional Black Caucus. He was an exemplary Member of Congress and an even better man. Job well done, Congressman Payne. Rest in peace, in power. Your legacy will live on. Our deepest condolences to Beatrice, to Donald, to Jack, Yvonne, all of your family by blood and by bond, including your staff. Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from New Jersey (Ms. Sherrill).”