(20th LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT) – Assemblyman Joseph Cryan (D-Union) released the following statement Tuesday on the passing of U.S. Rep. Donald Payne:
“Today we grieve for the loss of a true friend and leader.
“Congressman Payne was a groundbreaking role model and a tremendous individual who served as a mentor to me and many, many others when it came to dedicating oneself to public service. His service to Union County and New Jersey will never be forgotten.
“Congressman Payne was a man in whom the poor had a voice. He was someone who knew presidents and kings, but was more comfortable with the man in the street. That’s just who he was, and it’s what made him a great leader.
“My prayers are with Congressman Payne’s family. In their time of grief, let them be comforted by knowing his work did so much good for so many people.”