Pelosi Statement on the Passing of Congressman Ed Pastor

"With the passing of Congressman Ed Pastor, our nation has lost a true trailblazer and a tireless public servant. Over the course of his four decades in public office, including 12 terms in the House of Representatives, Congressman Pastor broke barriers and delivered meaningful progress for his constituents, for the Latino community and for all Americans.

"The first Latino Congressman elected to the U.S. House from Arizona, Congressman Pastor devoted every day in Congress to advancing opportunities for immigrants and communities of color. As the former Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, Congressman Pastor took pride in drawing on his experience as a high school teacher to serve as a mentor to young Latinos and Latinas across the country. Many of these young men and women have followed in his footsteps to become leaders in their communities and in Congress. This enduring legacy has helped build a brighter and more durable future that fully represents our nation's values of equality and opportunity for all.

"As a long-time member of the Appropriations Committee, Congressman Pastor was a champion for key investments in education, infrastructure and small businesses. He was admired by colleagues on both sides of the aisle for his willingness to debate policies and come together in the spirit of bipartisanship to move our country forward. Through his tireless work, Congressman Pastor brought good-paying jobs and economic opportunity to his community, helping improve the lives of millions of Americans.

"In every aspect of his service, Congressman Pastor exemplified passionate, committed and honest leadership. May it be a comfort to his wife Verma, his daughters, Yvonne and Laura, and his entire family that so many people join them at this difficult time to celebrate the life of an extraordinary man."