Longtime New Jersey Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr., known recently for his advocacy against Ticketmaster's controversial sales practices, passed away Wednesday morning at the age of 87.

Pascrell’s contributions to New Jersey and his commitment to public service were evident throughout his life, from his time in the New Jersey General Assembly to his role as the mayor of Paterson, and his death will be mourned by many of his colleagues in Congress, as the New York Post reports.

Pascrell’s political journey began long before he entered Congress. He served four terms in the New Jersey General Assembly, where he gained a reputation for his dedication to the people of his district.

His leadership skills were further recognized when he became the mayor of Paterson in 1990, a position he held until 1997 when he was elected to represent New Jersey’s 9th District in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Championing Legislation to Regulate Ticketmaster

One of Pascrell’s most notable causes in recent years was his fight against Ticketmaster's practices, which he viewed as harmful to consumers. Pascrell was a vocal supporter of federal regulation of the live events ticket marketplace, and he played a key role in the introduction of the BOSS and SWIFT Act legislation. His advocacy was especially highlighted during the controversy surrounding Taylor Swift's tour, where many fans were unable to secure tickets due to issues with Ticketmaster.

“Whether it is fans of Taylor Swift or countless other performers, the abuses of this monopoly have harmed tens of millions of Americans who are fed up with endless fees and ticket schemes,” Pascrell had said, emphasizing the widespread impact of these practices.

Pascrell’s efforts to protect consumers in the ticketing industry were part of his broader commitment to fighting for the rights of his constituents and ensuring fairness in the marketplace.

Final Days and Health Struggles

Pascrell’s health began to decline earlier this summer when he was admitted to St. John’s Regional Medical Center on July 14 due to a respiratory illness. After being discharged to a rehab facility on Aug. 7, his condition worsened, and he was hospitalized again 10 days before his death. Despite his health challenges, Pascrell remained determined to continue his work in Congress.

“As our United States Representative, Bill fought to his last breath to return to the job he cherished and to the people he loved,” his family said in a statement, reflecting on his unwavering dedication to his role.

Pascrell’s dedication to his job was further evident earlier this year when he faced a challenge in the Democratic primary from Mohamed Khairullah. Despite the health struggles and political challenges, Pascrell remained committed to his constituents and his work.

A Legacy of Public Service and Controversy

Pascrell’s long career in public service was not without controversy. He faced criticism from the Palestinian community in his district for his pro-Israel stance, particularly following his support for Israel’s right to defend itself after an Oct. 7 attack. This position created tension within his diverse constituency, but Pascrell remained firm in his beliefs.

Had Pascrell won a 15th term, he would have become the oldest member of the House after Grace Napolitano’s retirement. His longevity in office and the deep ties he formed with his community were a testament to his enduring commitment to the people he served.

Pascrell’s death follows that of another New Jersey congressman, Rep. Donald Payne Jr., who died on April 24, marking a period of loss for the state's political landscape.

Remembering a Lifelong Public Servant

Pascrell’s family and colleagues have expressed deep sorrow over his passing, reflecting on his lifelong commitment to public service. “Bill lived his entire life in Paterson and had an unwavering love for the city he grew up in and served. He is now at peace after a lifetime devoted to our great nation America,” his family stated.

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy also paid tribute to Pascrell, saying, “Throughout his life, Bill proved to all of us what it means to live up to our New Jersey values. Tammy and I will miss him dearly.”

Rep. Frank Pallone, a long-time colleague of Pascrell, shared his grief on social media, writing, “I had the honor of serving alongside @BillPascrell for 27 years. I will deeply miss my friend & partner.”

Mark Greenbaum, another close associate, highlighted Pascrell’s deep connection to his district, stating, “He lived his entire life in Paterson and our district. He loved his job so much. He was a man of the people in a way you don’t see much anymore. He may be the last of his kind in Congress.”

Conclusion: Pascrell’s Enduring Impact

Bill Pascrell Jr.'s passing marks the end of a significant chapter in New Jersey politics. His lifelong dedication to public service, from his early days in the New Jersey General Assembly to his decades-long tenure in Congress, has left an indelible mark on his community.

Pascrell's advocacy against Ticketmaster and his commitment to fairness in the marketplace, coupled with his deep ties to Paterson, ensure that his legacy will not soon be forgotten.

As New Jersey mourns the loss of a devoted public servant, the impact of Pascrell’s work will continue to be felt for years to come.