A Democratic congressman from Texas has died.
Sheila Jackson Lee has died at the age of 74, her family announced in a statement Friday.
“Today, it is with incredible sadness at our loss, but also with deep gratitude for the life she shared with us, that we announce the passing of U.S. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee, R-Texas’ 18th Congressional District,” the statement said.
The 15-term congressman was an outspoken advocate for black Americans for decades.
Jackson Lee announced in June that she had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, warning her constituents at the time that she would likely be “intermittently absent” from Congress while she received treatment.
Sheila Jackson Lee (pictured) has died at the age of 74, her family announced in a statement Friday.
“My doctors have confirmed my diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, and I am currently undergoing treatment to combat this disease that affects tens of thousands of Americans each year,” Jackson Lee said in a statement in June.
“I am confident that my doctors have developed the best possible plan to address my specific illness. The road ahead will not be easy, but I have faith that God will strengthen me.”
Jackson Lee was born in Queens, New York, and attended Yale University and the University of Virginia School of Law.
She was a member of the Democratic Party and served on the Houston City Council before being elected to the House of Representatives.
The congresswoman was elected to represent Texas’ 18th congressional district, which includes much of downtown Houston and the surrounding area. Since 1972, it has been the Downtown Houston district.
In March 2023, Jackson Lee announced her candidacy for Houston mayoral election