A long serving New York Democrat who was the first woman to chair the House Appropriations Committee has died. Former Congresswoman Nita Lowey died Saturday after battling metastatic breast cancer. She was 87.
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand released a statement on Sunday regarding Rep. Lowey’s death.
“Today, New York mourns the loss of former Congresswoman Nita Lowey. Nita was not only my colleague for many years, but she was also a close friend who exemplified persistence and compassion. She loved our nation and had a passion for public service that never wavered throughout her 32 years in office.
Throughout her career, Nita broke barriers that changed the course of our state and improved her community. As the first woman to chair the House Appropriations Committee, she held a deeply influential role in ensuring New York got the federal dollars it deserved. Her decisions and leadership helped get critical infrastructure projects completed and money into the pockets of New Yorkers. When I was a new member in Congress, I learned so much from Nita. Her service to our country will never be forgotten. My condolences go out to her husband, children, and grandchildren. May her memory be a blessing.”
Lowey’s family said a private funeral and burial will be followed by a memorial service at a later date.
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