Former U.S. Rep. Nita Lowey, Trailblazing New York Democrat, Dies at 87

TL/DR –

Former US Representative Nita Lowey, the first woman to chair the House Appropriations Committee, has died at age 87 after battling metastatic breast cancer. Lowey, a Democrat, represented suburban communities north of New York City for 32 years, advocating for women, children, and families, and pushing for federal funding to combat AIDS and for economic aid to developing nations. She also led a successful fight to provide contraception coverage to federal workers via their federal health insurance plans under the Republican-controlled House in the late 1990s.

Passing of Nita Lowey, Pioneering U.S. Democrat

The US political scene mourns the death of former U.S. Rep. Nita Lowey, a New York Democratic stalwart, first woman to chair the House Appropriations Committee. She passed away at 87 following a battle with metastatic breast cancer.

Lowey’s family conveyed through a statement that she brought the same resilience to her fight as she had to her 32-year career in Congress, staunchly supporting women, children, and families.

Surrounded by her loved ones, she died peacefully at her home in Harrison, New York. In her honor, Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul ordered flags half-staff from Sunday to Monday.

Lowey, who represented communities north of New York City, was hailed as a dedicated public servant and an indefatigable fighter for her constituents. She left her imprint on numerous initiatives throughout her career in the House, including AIDS funding, economic aid to developing countries, women’s health care, and education.

Having served in Congress since 1988, Lowey chose not to run for re-election in 2020. Her retirement marked the end of an impactful career, during which she spearheaded a successful fight for contraception coverage for federal workers in the late 1990s.

Connecticut U.S. Rep. Rosa DeLauro, present ranking Democrat on the appropriations committee, paid tribute to Lowey, praising her negotiation skills and dedication. Similarly, U.S. Rep. Mike Lawler lauded her bipartisan spirit and commitment to public service.

Ken Jenkins, Westchester County Executive, remembers Lowey as a mentor and a beacon of hope who upheld the values of good governance. A private funeral and a later memorial service will commemorate her life and achievements.

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