New Jersey Mourns the Passing of Congressman Donald Payne Jr.

New Jersey is in mourning following the passing of Congressman Donald Payne Jr., who succumbed to complications from a heart attack on Wednesday. Governor Phil Murphy announced the demise of the 65-year-old lawmaker, who had been hospitalized since April 6. A native of Newark, Payne began his political career on the City Council and later served as a freeholder in Essex County before being elected to represent the state’s 10th Congressional District in 2012, succeeding his father.

Known for his signature bow tie and tenacious spirit, Payne was a vocal advocate for working families and played a key role in issues such as securing funding for the state’s Gateway Project. During his time in Washington, he chaired the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials, emphasizing health care opportunities, lead testing in school water, and cancer prevention awareness.

Congressman Payne’s passing has left a void in the New Jersey political landscape, with colleagues such as Bill Pascrell Jr., Frank Pallone, Josh Gottheimer, and Mikie Sherrill paying tribute to his legacy of public service. Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr. lauded Payne as a “passionate leader and advocate” who continued his family’s tradition of public service.

Mayor Ras Baraka of Newark highlighted Payne’s dedication to the city, noting his talent for engaging diverse collaborators and promoting inclusive opportunities for women- and minority-owned businesses. As the son of the first African American to represent New Jersey in Congress, Donald Payne Jr.’s leadership and love for Newark were deeply ingrained in his DNA.

Donald Payne Jr.’s sudden passing has raised questions about the future of his congressional seat. With his name set to appear on the upcoming Democratic primary ballot, the decision on his successor will be made by the county committees in the district once the primary results are certified. Governor Murphy faces the choice of calling a special election to fill the vacant seat or waiting until the general election on November 5 to allow voters to select a candidate for both the remaining term and the next term.