Representative Sheila Jackson Lee dies at the age of 74

Mychael Schnell and The Hill

17 mins ago

Representative Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas), who served in Congress for nearly three decades, has died at the age of 74, her family announced Friday evening.

“Today, with incredible sadness for our loss, but also deep gratitude for the life she shared with us, we announce the passing of U.S. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee of Texas’ 18th Congressional District,” her family wrote in a statement shared on her account on X.

Her family did not release a cause of death, but the news came just over a month after the congresswoman announced she had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and was undergoing treatment.

Jackson Lee was first elected to the House of Representatives in 1994 after defeating then-incumbent Rep. Craig Washington (D-Texas) in the Democratic primary. She defeated her Republican opponent in the general election, beginning her nearly 30-year tenure in the House.

The congresswoman was a member of the House Judiciary Committee, the Homeland Security Committee and the House Appropriations Committee.

“As a local, national and international humanitarian, she was recognized worldwide for her courageous fight for racial justice, criminal justice and human rights, with a special focus on women and children,” Jackson Lee’s family wrote in their statement Friday evening.

“Her legislative successes have impacted millions, from establishing the federal Juneteenth holiday to reinstating the Violence Against Women Act,” they added.

Jackson Lee won her Democratic primary for Texas’ 18th Congressional District in March, emerging victorious after a tough race for her seat. The victory came after she launched a failed campaign for mayor of Houston.

The congresswoman’s family honored her legacy and announced her death on Friday evening.

“She left her greatest mark on us as our beloved wife, sister, mother and bebe (grandmother),” the family statement said. “We will miss her greatly, but her legacy will continue to inspire all who believe in freedom, justice and democracy.”

Updated at 11:19pm EST.