Political leaders remember Houston icon U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee

HOUSTON (KIAH) — Former presidents, national and local leaders, are expressing their condolences for Houston politics icon Sheila Jackson Lee. A statement was issued by her family Friday night announcing her death. She was 74.

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee was a friend and mentor to me, as well as a champion for her community. I will miss her dearly, and so will our entire community. The Congresswoman was never afraid to lend her fearless voice to move mountains not just for her constituents, but for all in Harris County and any place she could make a difference. Her strength and stamina were truly never-ending and her determination to rally a chorus to the fuse of justice was unwavering. Just two days ago, my friend smiled as we discussed the progress of hurricane recovery and navigating local politics. Two weeks before that, she worked with me to strategize on how to save a federal transportation investment that came under threat. We will remember her barrier-breaking career, her smarts, her passion, and her ability to weather storm after storm as a strong woman in politics. My condolences go out to her family, her friends, and the community that knows how much she fought for us.

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo

I am deeply saddened by the death of my dear friend and colleague, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. From City Hall to the Halls of Congress, Sheila Jackson Lee has served her constituents well. She has written and passed key legislation and has stood on the floor of the United States House of Representatives speaking passionately for the interests of her district and the country she loved. She has worked with and advised Presidents of our great country, met with global leaders, and has been embraced by world renowned artists. But her work on the ground, in some of the poorest and under-resourced communities; the channeling of billions of federal dollars back to her district; her presence at someone’s bedside, giving words of comfort to families who lost loved ones; her appearances at places of worship and events showcasing the global diversity of our City; and her uncanny ability to be everywhere, working every day for those who needed a champion, made her truly exceptional.

When she was elected to the United States House of Representatives she stood in the shadow of Barbara Jordan, Mickey Leland and Craig Washington. Without question, she rose to the occasion and served with great distinction. Even if you disagreed with her politics, you had to respect her work ethic. We can honestly say Sheila Jackson Lee left it all on the field. Rest in peace my sister. Thank you for all you gave us. And, thank you to her family for sharing her with us. We will not forget her sacrifice or yours. Sheila – to God be the glory for the good you have done. It was truly a job well done!

Former Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner

We send our prayers and condolences to her family. While we mourn her loss, we also celebrate her life and accomplishments. Congresswoman Jackson Lee was a true champion for justice. She served in the United States House of Representatives for 30 years and always displayed an unmitigated commitment to serve all of us, but particularly the least of us and the disenfranchised. As a congresswoman, she had many accomplishments, including leading the effort to get Juneteenth recognized as a national holiday. With her booming, inspirational voice, Congresswoman Jackson Lee spoke truth to power in Texas and Washington, D.C., and kept her hand on the pulse of Texas’ African- American population.

TEXAS NAACP REMEMBERS SHEILA JACKSON LEE

Full statement below…

Surrounded by family, Congresswoman Jackson Lee leaves behind an iconic legacy that will withstand the test of time. Known for her relentless advocacy, the congresswoman dedicated her life to public service, advancing civil rights, healthcare reform, and disaster recovery. This unwavering commitment to her constituents in Houston’s 18th district propelled Congresswoman Jackson Lee as one of the most respected and influential figures in the U.S. House. The Texas Democratic Party sends our sincerest condolences to the congresswoman’s loved ones, friends, colleagues, and constituents during this time of grieving. And in the spirit of Sheila Jackson Lee’s legacy, we will march forward in our fierce commitment to fighting for justice, equality and opportunity for all.

Texas Democratic Party Chair Gilberto Hinojosa

Tonight and forever more, we honor the extraordinary life and legacy of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. Her tireless commitment to justice and equality inspired us all. Congresswoman Jackson Lee stood on the front lines of the fight for civil rights, embodying the spirit of the great leaders who came before her. Her unwavering advocacy for criminal justice reform, healthcare access, and the rights of marginalized communities transformed countless lives.

Congresswoman Jackson Lee’s passion was matched only by her relentless pursuit of change. From her efforts to reform the criminal justice system to championing healthcare for all, her work transcended the boundaries of politics. She fought for the voiceless, ensuring every person had a seat at the table.

In the halls of Congress and beyond, Sheila Jackson Lee’s voice resonated with power and conviction. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come, reminding us true leadership is defined by service and unwavering dedication to justice. Well done, thy good and faithful servant. Rest in Power, Congresswoman.

Texas Democratic Party Treasurer Odus E. Evbagharu

Sheila Jackson Lee was a fearless fighter for the people of Houston, one of our country’s most effective leaders, and a wonderful friend to Hillary and me.

Former President Bill Clinton

My friend, ally, and long-time political partner, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, passed from this world and into the pantheon of legendary Texas leaders. For nearly 30 years, she tirelessly represented the people of her congressional district.

Through crises and disasters – as well as triumphs – Sheila’s ceaseless and unwavering dedication to those she represented served as an inspiration and source of strength to me in my career. She exhibited this dedication every day through her deeds, actions and accomplishments. she was a beloved mother, grandmother, and confidante who leaves behind a legacy of single-minded commitment to our community.

Holding dear the memory of those who pass before us is the greatest homage we can pay to those we love. And I know Sheila Jackson Lee will dwell fondly in our memories for years to come.”

Commissioner Ellis’s Statement on Death of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee

Tonight, I join my fellow Houstonians, my colleagues in Congress, and people across our country in mourning the loss of my friend and colleague Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee.  For decades, Congresswoman Jackson Lee worked tirelessly as a champion for our community, our country, and our Constitution, serving with passion, persistence, and purpose.  All Houstonians benefited from her strong leadership, hard work, and unwavering dedication to public service—from City Council to Congress.  And all Americans have benefited, and will continue to benefit for generations to come, from her efforts to ensure justice, equality, and freedom throughout our nation.

Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher Statement Following the Passing of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee

Words cannot fully express the impact of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. The word ‘tireless’ gets thrown around in politics, but there’s no one I’ve ever met with that kind of work ethic who could compare Congresswoman Jackson Lee. Her work didn’t only benefit the Houstonians she represented for decades; it helped make our nation better for all Americans. Saying she will be missed is an understatement. My condolences to her family and to all who loved her. Thank you, Congresswoman, for your dedication to our city, county, state and country.

Harris County Precinct 2 Commissioner Adrian Garcia

Although we had our political disagreements, there were many moments with her, both public and private that showed me that bipartisanship and service to country first can still bring members of Congress together.

Wesley Hunt Statement on Rep. Shelia Jackson Lee

In these divided times, Congresswoman Lee and I were able to partner on several legislative initiatives for the city of the Houston.  Her steadfast commitment to serving the people of Houston and her tireless work have left an indelible mark on our community and our nation.

Rep. Wesley Hunt Statement on the Passing of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee

My heart is heavy in learning of the passing of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. It is no secret that we enjoyed close familial ties and over the years the Congresswoman became a mentor and friend.

Tonight, our nation lost a champion for democracy and justice. Tonight, our community lost a fighter who always showed up when needed. Tonight, the most marginalized Americans lost an unwavering ally. As the father of two girls, I can only pray that Chelsea and I are able to raise them to be as fierce as Congresswoman Jackson Lee. Our prayers are with the Congresswoman’s family and all those who hold her dear. It is now up to each of us to carry forward the fight in her honor and legacy.

Commissioner Dexter L. McCoy remembers the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee

I’m heartsick by the loss of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee . I’ve known Sheila since I was hired as a young law professor at the University of Houston. She has always been a fighter, a trailblazer, and a friend. Her legacy will live on.

U.S. Senator, Massachusetts Elizabeth Warren

The world has lost a true champion of justice! Let’s lift our sister’s, Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee ’s, family and loved ones up in prayer Rest in power, Queen.

Ben Crump

As a charter member of the Black Heritage Committee, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee for her support of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Her dedication to the Rodeo and the Houston community will not be forgotten.

Rodeo Houston

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