The United States House of Representatives has lost one of its members, Rep. Donald Payne Jr., a Democrat representing New Jersey’s 10th congressional district. Speaker Mike Johnson delivered the solemn announcement on Wednesday.
“We are saddened to be informed of the passing today of congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr.,” Johnson stated on X.
Payne, 58, had been hospitalized earlier this month due to complications from diabetes, his office previously disclosed. The congressman suffered what was described as “a cardiac episode” related to his condition.
Donald Payne Jr.’s congressional career spanned over a decade, taking over the 10th district seat in 2012 after winning a special election upon his father’s death. Donald Milford Payne Sr. was the first Black representative elected from New Jersey, serving from 1989 until his passing.
The younger Payne continued his father’s legacy of advocacy, sitting on several health-focused caucuses and sponsoring related legislation. As a member of the Congressional Black Caucus, he presented policy recommendations to former President Trump in 2017 aimed at “advancing Black families.”
With Payne’s untimely death ahead of the November general election, New Jersey Democrats will need to select a replacement nominee for the 10th district race. New Jersey Governor Murphy is also expected to call a special election to fill the remainder of Payne’s term.
His passing narrows the House majority even further for Speaker Johnson. Democrats now hold 212 seats compared to 217 Republicans.
