Donald Payne, Democratic Representative from New Jersey, passes away at the age of 65.

Rep. Donald Payne Jr., D-N.J., passed away Wednesday at the age of 65, following a heart attack he suffered more than two weeks ago.

New Jersey Democrat Gov. Phil Murphy confirmed the news of Payne’s death in a statement released on Wednesday.

“Tammy and I are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of our friend, and a steadfast champion for the people of New Jersey, Congressman Donald Payne, Jr.,” Murphy expressed in a statement shared on X.

After experiencing a heart attack on April 6, Payne had been in a coma and on a ventilator at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, as reported by the New Jersey Globe. 

He had been dealing with various health issues in recent years, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and kidney problems that required regular dialysis.

Representing New Jersey’s 10th Congressional District, Payne had been serving in the House since 2013. His district includes parts of Essex, Hudson, and Union counties, as noted by The Hill.

“With his signature bowtie, big heart, and tenacious spirit, Donald embodied the very best of public service,” Murphy stated. “As a former union worker and toll collector, he deeply understood the struggles our working families face, and he fought valiantly to serve their needs, every single day.

“Donald’s love will live on in the homes of his neighbors in Newark, who now have access to safe drinking water, and in the good-paying jobs he helped create for his brothers and sisters in labor.”

Donald Payne Jr. was the son of Rep. Donald Payne Sr., D-Newark, who became New Jersey’s first Black representative.

He is survived by his wife Beatrice and their three children, Donald III, Jack and Yvonne, as reported by NorthJersey.com.