The state of New York is marking a period of mourning following the death of former Congresswoman Nita Lowey, as Governor Kathy Hochul has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff until sunset today, this gesture honors a lifelong public servant known for her dedication to her constituents in Westchester and Rockland, her family announced her passing due to breast cancer last Saturday, at the age of 87, the governor, expressing personal sadness over the loss, remembered Lowey as a guiding presence during her own early days in Washington, Lowey's legacy includes her distinguished 32-year tenure in the House of Representatives, where she broke new ground as a woman in leadership roles.
Throughout her career, Lowey served on the influential House Appropriations Committee and eventually chaired the committee, a portrait commemorating her service was unveiled in the committee room prior to her retirement in 2021, colleagues from both sides of the aisle have highlighted the impact she had, with Rep. George Latimer stating "It stands today. It will stand tomorrow. So even though I can't pick up the phone and talk to Nita, her presence won't be forgotten," in a statement obtained by CBS News New York.
Lowey not only led the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee but also made history as the first woman to chair the Appropriations Committee. Her groundbreaking journey also included a brief foray into a 2000 U.S. Senate run, which she yielded when Hillary Clinton entered the field, according to a statement from Gov. Hochul, obtained by the Governor's office.
Remembered as a 'Tikkun Olam' adherent committed to 'repairing the world,' Lowey was celebrated not only for her policy advances impacting education, medical research, and international relations, but also for her personal investment in the betterment of society, State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins encapsulated her spirit by saying "She was the role model, the mentor, the godmother. She was everything," in her reflection on Lowey's lasting influence described in the same CBS News New York article.
Survived by her husband of 64 years Stephen, as well as her three children and eight grandchildren, Lowey's family has announced that a private funeral and burial will take place, with a memorial service to follow at a later date.
.jpg){kind=link}