Sheila Jackson Lee has died after battling pancreatic cancer at the age of 74. At her death, she was a senior member of the House Judiciary, Homeland Security, and Budget committees.
Sheila Jackson Lee, a Houston Democrat and one of Texas’ longest-serving Congressional members, passed away on Friday at 74 after battling pancreatic cancer. Known for her staunch advocacy of progressive causes, Jackson Lee leaves behind a legacy of significant contributions and steadfast dedication to her constituents.
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Her political career began in 1994 when she surprisingly defeated four-term U.S. Representative Craig Washington in the Democratic primary. From that point, Jackson Lee established herself as a prominent figure in Congress and Houston, forging connections with top Democratic Party leaders.
Sheila Jackson Lee was a consistent progressive voice on Capitol Hill. She opposed the Iraq War early on and supported gay rights. In 2021, her commitment to civil rights led to her arrest for civil disobedience over a federal voting rights bill.
At her death, she was a senior member of the House Judiciary, Homeland Security, and Budget committees. She was never hesitant to speak passionately about the issues she championed, both on the House floor and before the media.
In her 18th Congressional District, encompassing Downtown Houston, Jackson Lee was a familiar presence at local events, from graduations to funerals and baby showers. Her tenacity in securing federal funds for Houston was well-known, including a notable instance in 2009 when she secured $1 billion for the city’s light rail system by directly lobbying then-Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood.
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U.S. Representative Frank Pallone of New Jersey once described Jackson Lee as a fierce advocate, noting her relentless efforts for causes and individuals she supported. Unfortunately, her illness increasingly kept her at home this year, leading to her missing significant votes in May and June.
Despite her health challenges, Jackson Lee was active until recently. Last year, she announced her candidacy for Houston mayor, hoping to transition from her Congressional role to local leadership. However, a leaked tape of her harshly reprimanding staff complicated her campaign, despite endorsements from prominent figures like outgoing Mayor Sylvester Turner and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Ultimately, she lost the race to former State Senator John Whitmire.
About Sheila Jackson Lee
Born in Queens, New York, Sheila Jackson Lee graduated from Yale University in 1972 and from the University of Virginia Law School in 1975. She moved to Houston when her husband, Elwyn Lee, began working at the University of Houston. Before her Congressional career, she served on the Houston City Council.
Throughout her time in Congress, Jackson Lee built strong relationships within her party. She was instrumental in various leadership campaigns and legislative efforts, including advocating for Nancy Pelosi’s return as House Speaker in 2018. Her influential connections extended to the highest levels of the Democratic Party, earning endorsements from Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama in her recent primary race against Amanda Edwards, which she won decisively.
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Sheila Jackson Lee’s achievements include becoming the first female Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee for Crime and Federal Government Surveillance and chairing the subcommittee in the 117th Congress from 2020 to 2022. She also spoke at the 2016 Democratic National Convention, recognized for her effectiveness as a surrogate.
Jackson Lee continued the legacy of the trailblazers who previously held the 18th Congressional District seat, such as Barbara Jordan and Mickey Leland. Despite criticism for her high staff turnover and a reputation for being demanding, she remained committed to her constituents and the causes she believed in.
Reflecting on her career, Sheila Jackson Lee acknowledged the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated field, citing experiences of discrimination and sexism. Nonetheless, she focused on her work, consistently delivering results for those she represented.
Friends and Allies paid tribute to Sheila Jackson Lee
Tributes poured in from notable friends and allies, praising her unwavering dedication and inspirational career. Rodney Ellis, a Harris County commissioner, lauded her as a source of strength and an advocate for the underprivileged. Former Mayor Turner highlighted her efforts to secure federal funds and support diverse communities in Houston.
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