Rep. Donald McEachin (D-VA) has died at the age of 61 from colorectal cancer, the chief of staff for the Democrat congressman from Virginia has announced.
McEachin has represented Virginia’s Fourth Congressional District, which stretches from the capital city of Richmond east toward Chesapeake, since 2017.
Tara Rountree, McEachin’s chief of staff, said: “We are all devastated at the passing of our boss and friend, Congressman Donald McEachin.
“Valiantly, for years now, we have watched him fight and triumph over the secondary effects of his colorectal cancer from 2013.
“Tonight, he lost that battle, and the people of Virginia’s Fourth Congressional District lost a hero who always, always fought for them and put them first.
“Until a new representative is elected, our office will remain open and continue to serve our constituents.
“The family asks for privacy at this time.
“Arrangements will be announced over the next few days,” Rountree added.
— Rep. Donald McEachin (@RepMcEachin) November 29, 2022
Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA) said:
“Up until the very end, Don McEachin was a fighter.
“Even though he battled cancer and faced other trials in recent years, he never lost his focus on social and environmental justice.”
Democrat House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) said:
“Congressman McEachin understood that every family — whether in the East End of Richmond or any community across America — deserves clean air, clean water, and a healthy planet.
“He will be deeply missed by his colleagues, and he leaves behind a legacy that will improve the lives of all of our children for generations to come.”
It is with great sadness that I join Virginians in mourning the loss of Congressman Donald McEachin: a tireless champion for Virginia families and a force for economic opportunity and environmental justice.
— Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) November 29, 2022
Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA) called the late congressman “A gentle giant, a compassionate champion for underdogs, a climate warrior, a Christian example, an understanding dad, a proud husband, a loyal brother.”
I met Donald McEachin in 1985–we became fast friends. A gentle giant, a compassionate champion for underdogs, a climate warrior, a Christian example, an understanding dad, a proud husband, a loyal brother. “Teach us how short our life is, so that we may become wise.” Psalm 90:12.
— Tim Kaine (@timkaine) November 29, 2022
Rep. Abigail Spanberger (D-VA) said:
“Congressman McEachin’s passing leaves a deep void here in Virginia.
“But his example of leadership, his generosity of spirit, and his commitment to doing right in the world and rectifying injustices will endure for everyone whose lives he has touched, including mine.”
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