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Pelosi Statement on the Passing of Former Congressman Jack Brooks

Washington, D.C. – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today on the passing of longtime Texas Congressman Jack Brooks:

“For more than four decades, Congressman Jack Brooks stood tall as an unapologetic champion of his district, a proud Texan, and a legislative master in the U.S. Congress.  He was a giant of the House who held fast to his principles.  He was a patriot who dedicated his life to public service – from the beaches of the South Pacific in World War II to the halls of the Texas legislature to the committee rooms of Congress and the well of the House.  

“Jack Brooks never hesitated to vote his conscience and always upheld his oath to protect and defend the Constitution.  He was one of the few southerners of his time to support civil rights.  He held presidents responsible for their actions and held our federal government accountable for how it spent the public purse.  Over his career, he chaired both the Government Operations Committee and the Judiciary Committee with energy and passion, leading the charge for anti-trust legislation, securing rights for disabled Americans, and fighting for consumers at every turn.

“For those who served with Jack Brooks, it was an honor to call him a colleague; for the many more who knew him, it was a privilege to call him a friend.  We hope it is a comfort to his wife, Charlotte, his children and grandchildren that so many share in their grief at this sad time.”