Deceased Rep. Donald Payne Jr. wins New Jersey primary

The party has not yet declared a new candidate and his name had already been printed on the postal ballots.

Payne suffered a heart attack on April 6 and was hospitalized at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center. He died later that month, aged 65. In addition to his career as a politician, the six-term congressman was known as the father of triplets and as the son of the first Black American elected to Congress. of New Jersey, Donald Payne Sr.

“New Jersey lost a great public servant far too soon. Many people knew Don for his bow tie, his big smile and his friendly demeanor,” Rep. Frank Pallone Jr. (D) said at an event honoring Payne, highlighting the congressman’s fight for office. access to health care, better transportation infrastructure and replacement. lead pipes that “made children in his neighborhood sick.”

“With incredible style and a deep optimism that was truly contagious, Don was a kind, gentle giant in the People’s House, and his dedication to the people of New Jersey was inspirational,” said Rep. Joe Neguse (Colorado Democrat). said at the same event.

He added, “His impact has been felt and will be felt by countless people across the state of New Jersey and across our great country. »

Last month, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy ordered a special primary on July 16 and a special general election on September 18 to fill the remainder of Payne’s term.

The website for the Clerk of the U.S. House of Representatives says Payne’s Washington office and district offices “will continue to serve the people” of New Jersey’s 10th Congressional District under his supervision until A new representative is elected to fill the unexpired term.

Mariana Alfaro and Azi Paybarah contributed to this report.