Donald M. Payne Jr., was a second-generation United States congressman from New Jersey who served six terms in office, following in the footsteps of his namesake congressman father.
- Died: April 24, 2024 (Who else died on April 24?)
- Details of death: Died in Newark of following a cardiac episode at the age of 65.
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Donald Payne Jr.’s legacy
Donald Payne Jr. was born in Newark, New Jersey, and made it his hometown for life. A graduate of Hillside High School, Payne studied at Kean University.
His father, Donald Payne Sr., served 24 years in Congress as the first Black congressman to represent New Jersey. In 2006, Payne chose to follow his father’s inspiration and enter public service as well. He was elected to the Municipal Council of Newark in 2006 and served there until 2012, when his father died. Payne ran to fill his seat and was elected later that same year.
Like his father, Payne was repeatedly reelected to Congress by large margins. He spent time on the Homeland Security Committee and the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, among others. He was a member of the Congressional Black Caucus, the Congressional Arts Caucus, the Blue Collar Caucus, and others.
Payne Jr. suffered a cardiac episode on April 6, 2024, as a result of diabetes, and passed away two and a half weeks later.
On compromise in politics
“That’s what this country was built on: it was built on compromise. I feel this way, you feel that way, what can we work together on?” —Hudson County News interview, 2016
Tributes to Donald Payne Jr.
Full obituary: NorthJersey.com
