January 1, House Democrat Suddenly Passes Away Just Weeks After Winning Reelection

ON THIS DAY IN HISTORY…
1487: The first German Beer Purity Law (Reinheitsgebot), is promulgated in Munich by Albert IV, Duke of Bavaria stating beer should be brewed from only three ingredients – water, malt and hops.

Rep. Donald McEachin (D-VA) has died at age 61 after a battle with colorectal cancer.

McEachin’s passing came just weeks after he won reelection in the commonwealth’s 4th Congressional District, where he served since 2017.

“We are all devastated at the passing of our boss and friend, Congressman Donald McEachin,” said Tara Rountree, McEachin’s chief of staff.

“Valiantly, for years now, we have watched him fight and triumph over the secondary effects of his colorectal cancer from 2013,” the statement continued. “Tonight, he lost that battle, and the people of Virginia’s Fourth Congressional District lost a hero who always, always fought for them and put them first.”

Rountree said McEachin’s office “will remain open and continue to serve our constituents” until a new representative is elected.

Members of both parties extended their condolences after news of McEachin’s passing.

“It is with great sadness that I join Virginians tonight in mourning the loss of Congressman Donald McEachin: a tireless champion for Virginia families and a force for economic opportunity and environmental justice,” said House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) in a statement. “He will be deeply missed by his colleagues, and he leaves behind a legacy that will improve the lives of all of our children for generations to come.”

“It is with sadness that I would like to express my condolences to the McEachin family at the passing of my colleague, Rep. Donald McEachin,” Rep. Bob Good (R-VA) wrote on Twitter. “I am grateful for the kindness he showed me during the two years we served together. My prayers are with his family.”

Source: The Hill