Gabe Amo: “I join my colleagues in Congress and the Congressional Black Caucus in honoring a committed public servant and dedicated…”

“I join my colleagues in Congress and the Congressional Black Caucus in honoring a committed public servant and dedicated champion: Congressman Donald Payne, Jr. Mr. Speaker, I did not have the blessing of serving alongside Congressman Payne for as long as some here tonight. But I rise today to pay tribute to a man who showed me the same kindness when we first met as he showed to his lifelong friends and loved ones. I will never forget his willingness to chat in the cloakroom--to impart some wisdom on this new kid. When we spoke, Congressman Payne encouraged me to use my voice to help others. He knew, more than most, that the personal is political and the political is personal. Congressman Payne followed in the footsteps of his father--Donald Payne, Sr.--a former chair of the Congressional Black Caucus and New Jersey's first Black Member of Congress. There is no question that Congressman Payne was a fierce advocate for the interests of his Newark district. As a member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and the Committee on Homeland Security, he focused on investing in our rail and transit systems, championing men's health for all communities, and keeping Americans safe. Most of all, he never lost sight of what his neighbors felt and needed. And he was uncommonly open about his personal health and his years-long battle with diabetes.…”