Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee passes away at 74

United States Representative Sheila Jackson Lee of the 18th Congressional District of Texas has died. She was 74 years old.

Jackson Lee announced that she had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in June.

• ‘I stand in faith:’ Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee announces pancreatic cancer diagnosis

The news was announced in a statement posted to her X (formerly Twitter) account announced Friday night.

Jackson Lee had served as the U.S. Representative from Texas’ 18th congressional district since 1995. She ran in the 2023 Houston mayoral election, finishing second behind then-State Senator John Whitmire.

Former Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner released the following statement regarding Jackson Lee’s passing:

“I am deeply saddened by the death of my dear friend and colleague, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. From City Hall to the Halls of Congress, Sheila Jackson Lee has served her constituents well. She has written and passed key legislation and has stood on the floor of the United States House of Representatives speaking passionately for the interests of her district and the country she loved. She has worked with and advised Presidents of our great country, met with global leaders, and has been embraced by world renowned artists. But her work on the ground, in some of the poorest and under-resourced communities; the channeling of billions of federal dollars back to her district; her presence at someone’s bedside, giving words of comfort to families who lost loved ones; her appearances at places of worship and events showcasing the global diversity of our City; and her uncanny ability to be everywhere, working every day for those who needed a champion, made her truly exceptional.

When she was elected to the United States House of Representatives she stood in the shadow of Barbara Jordan, Mickey Leland and Craig Washington. Without question, she rose to the occasion and served with great distinction. Even if you disagreed with her politics, you had to respect her work ethic. We can honestly say Sheila Jackson Lee left it all on the field. Rest in peace my sister. Thank you for all you gave us. And, thank you to her family for sharing her with us. We will not forget her sacrifice or yours. Sheila – to God be the glory for the good you have done. It was truly a job well done!”

The announcement added that funeral arrangements are currently pending.

Houston Mayor John Whitmire released the following statement on SJL’s passing:

“Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee was a dedicated public servant and a champion for her constituents. Despite her illness, she worked as hard as she could for as long as she could for the 18th Congressional District. Only a few months ago, we worked together at the Houston Office of Emergency Management and with FEMA to help Houstonians recover from the Derecho. I ask Houstonians to join me in praying for her husband, children, grandchildren and extended family. May she rest in peace.”

Statement from President Joe Biden on the Passing of Representative Sheila Jackson Lee:

Sheila Jackson Lee was a great American. I had the honor of working with her during her nearly 30 years in Congress. No matter the issue - from delivering racial justice to building an economy for working people - she was unrelenting in her leadership.

Always fearless, she spoke truth to power and represented the power of the people of her district in Houston with dignity and grace. Those character traits established her as a towering figure in our politics. We saw it through her efforts to reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act, make Juneteenth a federal holiday, reintroduce the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act, and so much more.

Her character revealed itself time and again, including in her battle against cancer. Her brilliant spirit was unbreakable. Sheila Jackson Lee is part of a long line of patriots who delivered the promise of America to all Americans.

Jill and I send our love and condolences to her family, her constituents, and beloved colleagues of the Congressional Black Caucus. May God bless our friend, Sheila Jackson Lee.

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo shared the following statement on social media:

Congressman Wesley Hunt released the following statement regarding the passing of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee.

“It is with profound sadness that I acknowledge the passing of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, a devoted leader, a proud-fellow Houstonian, and someone who I was proud to call a friend,” said Hunt. Although we had our political disagreements, there were many moments with her, both public and private, that showed me that bipartisanship and service to country first can still bring members of Congress together. In these divided times, Congresswoman Lee and I were able to partner on several legislative initiatives for the city of Houston. Her steadfast commitment to serving the people of Houston and her tireless work have left an indelible mark on our community and our nation. Her legacy of dedication and compassion will continue to inspire us all. Emily and I extend our thoughts and prayers to her family and loved ones during this difficult time. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those she touched and those she served.”

Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis issued the following statement on the passing of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee:

“My friend, ally, and long-time political partner, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, passed from this world and into the pantheon of legendary Texas leaders. For nearly 30 years, she tirelessly represented the people of her congressional district. Through crises and disasters – as well as triumphs – Sheila’s ceaseless and unwavering dedication to those she represented served as an inspiration and source of strength to me in my career. She exhibited this dedication every day through her deeds, actions and accomplishments. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, and confidante who leaves behind a legacy of single-minded commitment to our community. Holding dear the memory of those who pass before us is the greatest homage we can pay to those we love. And I know Sheila Jackson Lee will dwell fondly in our memories for years to come.”

Senator Ted Cruz shared the following message on social media regarding SJL’s passing:

Texas Governor Greg Abbott shared the following statement regarding Sheila Jackson Lee’s passing:

Rep. Sylvia Garcia shared the following statement regarding Sheila Jackson Lee’s passing:

Rep. Jamie Raskin posted the following statement on social media:

President Bill Clinton and Secretary Hillary Clinton released the following statement on social media:

Texas Democratic Party Chair Gilberto Hinojosa released the following statement:

“Surrounded by family, Congresswoman Jackson Lee leaves behind an iconic legacy that will withstand the test of time. Known for her relentless advocacy, the congresswoman dedicated her life to public service, advancing civil rights, healthcare reform, and disaster recovery. This unwavering commitment to her constituents in Houston’s 18th district propelled Congresswoman Jackson Lee as one of the most respected and influential figures in the U.S. House. The Texas Democratic Party sends our sincerest condolences to the congresswoman’s loved ones, friends, colleagues, and constituents during this time of grieving. And in the spirit of Sheila Jackson Lee’s legacy, we will march forward in our fierce commitment to fighting for justice, equality and opportunity for all.”

Texas Democratic Party Treasurer Odus E. Evbagharu released the following statement:

“Tonight and forever more, we honor the extraordinary life and legacy of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. Her tireless commitment to justice and equality inspired us all. Congresswoman Jackson Lee stood on the front lines of the fight for civil rights, embodying the spirit of the great leaders who came before her. Her unwavering advocacy for criminal justice reform, healthcare access, and the rights of marginalized communities transformed countless lives.

“Congresswoman Jackson Lee’s passion was matched only by her relentless pursuit of change. From her efforts to reform the criminal justice system to championing healthcare for all, her work transcended the boundaries of politics. She fought for the voiceless, ensuring every person had a seat at the table.

“In the halls of Congress and beyond, Sheila Jackson Lee’s voice resonated with power and conviction. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come, reminding us true leadership is defined by service and unwavering dedication to justice. Well done, thy good and faithful servant. Rest in Power, Congresswoman.”

Fort Bend County Judge KP George shared the following on Facebook:

Harris County Commissioner Precinct 2 Adrian Garcia shared the following message on social media regarding Sheila Jackson Lee’s passing:

Commissioner Dexter L. McCoy released the following statement memorializing Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, who lost her fight against pancreatic cancer earlier this evening:

“My heart is heavy in learning of the passing of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. It is no secret that we enjoyed close familial ties and over the years the Congresswoman became a mentor and friend.

Tonight, our nation lost a champion for democracy and justice. Tonight, our community lost a fighter who always showed up when needed. Tonight, the most marginalized Americans lost an unwavering ally.

As the father of two girls, I can only pray that Chelsea and I are able to raise them to be as fierce as Congresswoman Jackson Lee. Our prayers are with the Congresswoman’s family and all those who hold her dear. It is now up to each of us to carry forward the fight in her honor and legacy.”

Statement from J. Kent Friedman, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Mickey Leland Kibbutzim Internship Foundation on SJL’s passing:

On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Mickey Leland Kibbutzim Internship Foundation, we express our profound sorry at the passing of Congress Member Sheila Jackson Lee. She has been an inspirational member of our Board ever since being elected to Congress, and a steadfast partner as we have sent over 400 students from the 18th Congressional District to experience the Holy Land in Israel. She will be deeply missed by our Board and by the Interns.

Here are more statements regarding Sheila Jackson Lee’s passing:

Senator Chuck Schumer posted the following statement on social media: