Chris Smith: “I congratulate Mrs. McIver, and I yield to the gentlewoman from New Jersey (Mrs. McIver). Mrs. McIVER. Mr. Speaker…”

“I congratulate Mrs. McIver, and I yield to the gentlewoman from New Jersey (Mrs. McIver). Mrs. McIVER. Mr. Speaker, Leader Jeffries, Congressman Pallone, my great colleagues in the New Jersey delegation, I am deeply humbled and honored that the people of New Jersey's 10th Congressional District have put their faith in me to give them a bold voice in the United States House of Representatives. I recognize my mom, my dad, sisters, husband, my bright 8-year-old daughter, and friends and extended family. I thank them so much for traveling here from New Jersey to be with me. I express my deepest gratitude to those who have provided mentorship and guidance throughout my career. A few of those folks are here today, like my New Jersey State Chairman, Leroy Jones, who is here watching tonight. Tonight, I walk in the footsteps of those who have come before me. The city of Newark, my lifelong home, has produced fierce, unyielding leaders who have dedicated their lives and careers to the pursuit of justice. My predecessor, Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr., embodied the vibrant spirit of our city and the people he faithfully served. He was an example to many of us. As I stand before my colleagues tonight, I pay tribute to him, and both deeply feel and will always miss his presence and his leadership.…”