U.S. Congressman Donald Payne Jr. Dies at 65

U.S. Congressman Donald Payne Jr., a Democrat representing New Jersey's 10th Congressional District, died on April 25, 2024, at the age of 65. Payne had been hospitalized for more than two weeks due to complications from diabetes and a heart attack he suffered earlier this month.

Payne was first elected to Congress in a special election in 2012 to fill the seat left open after the death of his father, Donald Payne Sr., who had represented the district for 23 years. Payne Jr. went on to win reelection six times and was running unopposed in the upcoming June 4 Democratic primary.

Known for his signature bowtie, big heart, and tenacious spirit, Payne was a tireless advocate for his constituents, working on issues like job creation, economic growth, child protection, education, and community health and safety. He served on the House Homeland Security and Transportation Committees, championing the inclusion of public health and climate-related provisions in legislation.

Why this matters: Payne's death leaves a vacancy in the heavily Democratic 10th Congressional District, which includes Newark and parts of Essex, Hudson, and Union Counties. His passing also brings the total number of members in the House to 430, with 218 Republicans and 212 Democrats.

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy and other lawmakers expressed their condolences and praised Payne's legacy of public service. "He was a gentleman who always put people first," said Rep. Bill Pascrell (D-9th Dist.). "He embodied the compassion, kindness, and humility central to public service."

Payne is survived by his wife Beatrice and their three grown children. The Democratic committee members in the 10th District will nominate a candidate to replace Payne on the November ballot, with a statutory deadline of August 29. Governor Murphy also has the authority to call a special election to fill the remainder of Payne's current term through January 2025.

Key Takeaways

• U.S. Rep. Donald Payne Jr. (D-NJ) died at 65 after a heart attack.
• Payne was first elected to Congress in 2012, succeeding his late father.
• Payne was a tireless advocate for his constituents on various issues.
• Payne's death leaves a vacancy in the heavily Democratic 10th District.
• NJ Governor can call a special election to fill the remainder of Payne's term.