2-minute read
Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr. dies at 87: Video
Rep. Bill Pascrell, Paterson’s former mayor who represented the city in Congress for nearly three decades, died Wed., Aug 21, 2024. He was 87.
Rep. Bill Pascrell, the veteran Democrat who represented the Paterson area in Congress for nearly three decades, died Wednesday, his family confirmed. He was 87 years old.
A Paterson resident and former Paterson mayor, Pascrell was first elected to Congress in 1996 and had served on the House Ways and Means Committee since 2007.
Feisty and outspoken, Pascrell embraced his image as a street-savvy Jersey tough guy who never walked away from a political fight. Pascrell prided himself on his many friendships with cops and firefighters.
Pascrell was widely known for being an advocate for first responders, especially firefighters. He worked to bring grants back to his district and spearheaded the Firefighter Investment and Response Enhancement Act of 2000 to establish the only federal program that delivers grant dollars directly to fire departments across America.
Pascrell had recently spent a 24-day hospitalization during which he needed what his staff said was “breathing assistance.” He was released, but then on Aug. 11 suffered a medical setback and was taken from a rehabilitation facility in Essex County to Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston.
Pascrell was instrumental in getting the Great Falls recognized as the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park during the administration of former President Barack Obama. He also served as co-chair of the Italian-American Congressional Delegation.
Story continues below photo gallery
Pascrell’s family posted Wednesday on the congressman’s account on X, formerly called Twitter.
“It is with deep sadness that we announce that Bill Pascrell Jr., our beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away this morning,” the family wrote. “As our United States Representative, Bill fought to his last breath to return to the job he cherished and to the people he loved.
“Bill lived his entire life in Paterson and had an unwavering love for the city he grew up in and served,” they said. “He is now at peace after a lifetime devoted to our great nation America.”
Tough battle for election in 2012
Pascrell had a streak of 14 Congressional election victories at the time he died, perhaps none of them quite as impressive as his win in 2012 when redistricting set up a primary battle between him and fellow Democratic incumbent Steve Rothman. Boosted by a strong turnout in Paterson, Pascrell emerged the winner over Rothman getting about 61% of the vote.
Pascrell faced a primary challenge this past June, but easily fended off Prospect Park Mayor Mohamed Khairullah by winning 76% of the vote. Much of Khairullah’s support came from the North Jersey Islamic community, which had been critical of Pascrell’s response to conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Pascrell was going to face Republican Billy Prempeh of Paterson in November — whom he had beaten twice before – in the November general election.
Who might succeed Pascrell?
With the congressman’s death, it’s up to Gov. Phil Murphy to schedule a special election for the remaining five months on Pascrell’s current term.
Political insiders say Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh and the city’s two Assembly representatives — Shavonda Sumter and Benjie Wimberly — are among those interested in the congressional seat.
Before making his way to Washington, Pascrell served in the state General Assembly and then as the mayor of Paterson. He also served in the U.S. Army.
Pascrell attended St. George’s Elementary School in Paterson and St. John the Baptist High School, then studied at Fordham University, where he received both bachelor’s and master’s degree.
He became a high school history teacher and an adjunct professor and was a member of the Paterson Board of Education and the Passaic County Community College’s Board of Trustees.
He is survived by his wife Elsie, three children and five grandchildren.
Paterson Press reporter Joe Malinconico contributed to this story
Katie Sobko covers the New Jersey Statehouse. Email: [email protected]
Elaine Hadley is a dedicated journalist covering the ever-evolving landscape of U.S. news. With a keen interest in politics and a commitment to uncovering the truth, she provides insightful commentary and in-depth analysis on domestic issues. When not reporting, Elaine enjoys exploring the diverse cultures and landscapes of the United States.
