Houston, TX (July 20, 2024) – Texas U.S. Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, a dedicated public servant and influential political figure, passed away on July 19, 2024, at the age of 74.
Born on January 12, 1950, Jackson Lee served as the U.S. representative for Texas’s 18th congressional district from 1995 until her death, representing much of central Houston. A member of the Democratic Party, she was previously an at-large member of the Houston City Council and co-dean of Texas’s congressional delegation.
Born in Queens, New York, Jackson Lee graduated from Yale University in 1972 and the University of Virginia School of Law in 1975. In 1987, after relocating to Houston, she was appointed as a municipal judge by then-Mayor Kathy Whitmire. Her political career progressed when she was elected to the Houston City Council in 1989, where she served until 1994. That year, she launched a successful campaign for Congress, defeating incumbent Craig Washington in the Democratic primary and securing an easy victory in the general election.
Throughout her nearly three-decade tenure in Congress, Jackson Lee was a staunch advocate for progressive policies. Notable legislative efforts included the introduction of the Essential Transportation Worker Identification Credential Assessment Act in 2013 and the Sabika Sheikh Firearm Licensing and Registration Act in 2021. Despite her significant contributions, her career faced challenges, such as stepping down from leadership positions in the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation and a House Judiciary subcommittee in 2019 following a lawsuit involving a former staffer.
In March 2023, Jackson Lee announced her candidacy for the Houston mayoral election. She placed second in the initial round of voting, prompting a runoff election on December 9, 2023. Despite garnering key endorsements, she lost decisively to state senator John Whitmire. Undeterred, she filed for re-election to her congressional seat on December 11 and won the Democratic primary on March 5, 2024.
Jackson Lee’s battle with cancer ended in July 2024, leaving behind a legacy of public service and advocacy. Her dedication to her constituents and her impact on both local and national politics will be remembered by many.
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