(Oakland, CA)  –  Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland), who had known CBS Sixty Minutes correspondent Ed Bradley since the 70's and last spoke with him in September regarding the Congressional Black Caucus' Annual Legislative Conference, released the following statement today on his passing:

“I was shocked and saddened to learn of Ed Bradley's passing.  Ed was a first rate journalist, and throughout his career he not only set a high standard for his fellow journalists, he also helped to break down barriers in a field that too often has not reflected the true diversity of our nation.  Ed was always interested in the role of African Americans in politics, and when we last spoke he shared his interest in the work of the Congressional Black Caucus.  I was privileged to know him, and my thoughts and prayers are with his family.”

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