Former Congressman John LaFalce has passed away at the age of 85, Erie County Democratic Party Chairman Jeremy Zellner confirmed.
A lifelong Buffalo resident, LaFalce served Western New York in Congress for nearly three decades. First elected in 1974, he represented the region from 1975 until his retirement in 2003. Over the years, he served in three different districts due to redistricting: the 36th (1975–1983), the 32nd (1983–1993), and the 29th Congressional District (1993–2003).
During his tenure, LaFalce played a key role in financial and small business policy. He served as the ranking Democrat on the House Financial Services Committee and was also a longtime member of the House Small Business Committee.
LaFalce is remembered as a dedicated public servant who championed economic development and financial reform throughout his career.
Governor Kathy Hochul announced flags on state buildings will be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Monday, in honor of LaFalce.
“John LaFalce had a profound influence on my early career, recruiting me from a large DC firm to serve as his Legislative Counsel on Capitol Hill and putting me on the path to a lifetime of public service,” Governor Hochulsaid. “A true champion for Western New York, John cared deeply about his constituents and worked tirelessly to bring transformative projects home to the district he loved. My thoughts are with his wife Pat, his son Martin, and all who loved him.”
“Congressman LaFalce was as Buffalo as they come. He had one of the biggest brains and the biggest heart,” said Senator Charles Schumer. “John was a legislative giant and a dear friend going back to our time serving together in the House. He would see a problem, whether in his beloved city of Buffalo or across the country, and dedicate every fiber of his being to making sure it was solved. His dedication to public service and passion for helping others knew no bounds. He loved Buffalo and always defended Western New York. He was a good and loyal friend, and I will deeply miss him. My prayers are with his loved ones and Western NY as they mourn this tremendous loss.”
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