Representing Texas’ 18th Congressional District, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee has sadly passed away, as announced by her family.
The 74-year-old Democrat had been serving her district, which includes a significant portion of Houston, since 1995. Last month, she revealed her battle with pancreatic cancer and was undergoing treatment.
In a statement shared on X, previously Twitter, Lee’s family described her as a “fierce champion of the people” who was lovingly referred to as ‘Congresswoman’ by her constituents due to her tireless dedication and service over the decades.
“A respected figure locally, nationally, and internationally, she was globally recognized for her advocacy for racial justice, criminal justice, and human rights, particularly focusing on women and children,” her family statement read.
Lee held senior positions on three House committees in the 118th U.S. Congress—Judiciary, Homeland Security, and Budget. She also made history as the first female ranking member of the Judiciary subcommittee for Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security.
Upon hearing of Lee’s passing during an interview with CNN’s Abby Phillip, Lee’s Democratic colleague, Texas Representative Adriano Espaillat, called her “a national hero.”
Reflecting on her legacy, Espaillat mentioned Lee’s mayoral run in Houston, noting, “She may have been trying to come home, but she will forever hold a special place in our hearts, no matter where we are.”
This is an ongoing story, and updates will be provided as more information emerges.