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July 20, 2024

Ranking Member Thompson Statement on the Passing of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee

(WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, released the below statement on the passing of longtime Committee member Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX):

"Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee’s presence was unmatched. She was a fighter, an intellect, and above all, a force. Her constituents were not only the people of Houston; they were the disadvantaged looking for an opportunity, the destitute looking for a new start in our Country, and the vulnerable looking for an advocate. It would be impossible to distill Congresswoman Jackson Lee’s three decades of service in Congress into a single sentence, but suffice it to say there was not a subject worthy of attention that she ignored.

“As a Member of the Homeland Security Committee, Congresswoman Jackson Lee fought for resources for first responders, help for those suffering the effects of natural disasters, improvements to aviation security, immigration and border security policies that reflect our values as a nation of immigrants, and laws to keep the United States on the cutting edge of technology while ensuring the security of new technologies and the privacy of Americans. Congresswoman Jackson Lee was relentless, and every cause she took on was better because of it.

“I am grateful that Congresswoman Jackson Lee decided to lend her immeasurable energy and tenacity to the Homeland Security Committee for nearly 20 years. Her absence will be felt just as much as her presence, and we will miss her dearly.

“Our thoughts are with her family, friends, and constituents during this difficult time."

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