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Rep. Donald McEachin (D-V), who just won his re-election bid, has passed away.
McEachin has been battling colorectal cancer for almost a decade.
He was only 61 years old.
Devasting Loss
The loss is huge for Democrats, who can ill-afford to lose any more members.
Since House members cannot be appointed, a special election will have to be held to fill the seat.
McEachin’s Chief of Staff Tara Rountree wrote, “We are all devastated at the passing of our boss and friend, Congressman Donald McEachin.
“Valiantly, for years now, we have watched him fight and triumph over the secondary effects of his colorectal cancer from 2013.
“Tonight, he lost that battle, and the people of Virginia’s Fourth Congressional District lost a hero who always, always fought for them and put them first.
“Until a new representative is elected, our office will remain open and continue to serve our constituents.
“The family asks for privacy at this time. Arrangements will be announced over the next few days.”
Senator Mark Warner (D-VA) stated, “Donald and Colette McEachin have been wonderful friends to me and Lisa for more than thirty years.
“We often bonded over stories and laughs about our mutual challenges raising families with three strong-willed daughters.
“Up until the very end, Don was a fighter.
“Even though he battled cancer and faced other trials in recent years, he never lost his focus on social and environmental justice.
“Tonight, Virginia has lost a great leader and I have lost a great friend.”
This will not impact the House Speaker election, as McCarthy will still need 218 votes to win the Speakership.
