Jerry Nadler: “It is with a heavy heart that I rise today, alongside my colleagues in the New York delegation and many of our other…”

“It is with a heavy heart that I rise today, alongside my colleagues in the New York delegation and many of our other cherished colleagues, to mourn the loss of a giant of the House and a trailblazer for women in public service, Chairwoman Nita Lowey. For more than three decades, she represented her constituents in Westchester and Rockland Counties with unwavering dedication, fierce advocacy, and an unbreakable spirit. As the first woman to serve as chair of the Appropriations Committee, Nita shattered glass ceilings with dignity and determination. As the former dean of the New York delegation, Nita fought tirelessly to secure resources for the Empire State, leading the charge after September 11, Superstorm Sandy, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Nita's commitment to global security and education also left an indelible mark beyond our borders. As the top Democrat on the Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations, she championed critical global health and education initiatives. Mr. Speaker, Nita was more than a colleague. She was a mentor and a friend to many of us. She was a voice of compassion and reason. She believed in the power of government to do good, and her legacy will endure through the lives she touched and the barriers she broke. May her memory be a blessing. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Lawler), my colleague.”