Sheila Jackson Lee, Texas Congresswoman, Dies at 74

Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, a prominent Democratic congresswoman from Texas, has passed away at the age of 74 after a battle with pancreatic cancer, her office announced on Friday. Known affectionately as "Congresswoman" by her constituents, Jackson Lee served the 18th Congressional District of Texas for over three decades, making significant contributions to legislation that impacted millions, including the establishment of Juneteenth as a federal holiday and the reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act. Her office expressed deep gratitude for her life and legacy, highlighting her unwavering commitment to freedom, justice, and democracy. Born on January 12, 1950, in Queens, New York, Jackson Lee was a trailblazer, being among the first women to graduate from Yale University. Before her congressional career, she served as a municipal judge and a city councilwoman in Houston. Elected to Congress in 1994, she became a vocal advocate for civil rights, police reform, and social justice, often speaking out against police brutality and former President Donald Trump. At the time of her death, she held the position of chief deputy whip for House Democrats and was a vice chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus. Her passing has elicited heartfelt tributes from colleagues and leaders, including President Joe Biden, who remembered her as a "great American" and a patriot. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Congressional Black Caucus Chairman Steven Horsford expressed profound sorrow, describing her as a giant in the community and a beloved friend. Jackson Lee is survived by her husband, Elwyn Lee, and her two children, Jason and Erica, with funeral arrangements pending.