U.S. Congressman Elijah Cummings, the Democratic chairman of a leading congressional committee investigating U.S. President Donald Trump, has died at age 68, his office said on Thursday.
Cummings was chair of the U.S. House Oversight and Reform Committee, a top investigative committee in the House of Representatives that along with two others is overseeing an impeachment inquiry into the Republican president.
“At approximately 2:45 a.m. on Thursday October 17, 2019, Congressman Elijah E. Cummings (MD-07) passed away at John Hopkins Hospital due to complications concerning longstanding health challenges,” his office said in a statement.
The statement said that more information would be released later Thursday. Reuters could not immediately reach his representatives for further details.
The Maryland Democrat was first elected to office in 1996, and has served as chair of his committee since January after the Democrats gained control of the House of Representatives in 2018.
Along with the impeachment probe over Trump’s handling of Ukraine, Cummings’ committee has also demanded documents related to the president’s personal finances as well as possible abuses in federal agencies in the Trump administration.
His panel has also been involved in fights with Trump’s administration over subpoenas challenged by the president.
Cummings, the son of sharecroppers, was a trial lawyer before being elected to office to represent Baltimore and other parts of central Maryland, and has championed civil rights issues.
This past summer, Trump and Cummings were involved in a series of tweets and comments after the president said Baltimore was “rat and rodent infested.”
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Cummings was a graduate of Howard University where he earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and the University of Maryland School of Law.
Cummings had been absent recently from Congress due to health concerns. He was previously treated for heart and knee issues, CBS News reported.
Despite Trump’s attacks against him, Elijah Cummings had deep friendships and respect across the aisle in the Capitol – something not common today for a person holding a prominent position like he did. He was close to Mark Meadows but also other GOP lawmakers as well
— Manu Raju (@mkraju) October 17, 2019
“When our nation can ill-afford to lose such a kind, principled leader one of my dearest friends and mentors has left us. My heart is broken, as I weep personally and for his family and community.” On Elijah Cummings’ death: https://t.co/1nDtNqKcHz
— The Baltimore Sun (@baltimoresun) October 17, 2019
Congressman Elijah Cummings has died https://t.co/KuV7yAVZRM
— Jack Posobiec 🇺🇸 (@JackPosobiec) October 17, 2019
Due to the loss of our dear colleague Chairman Elijah Cummings, today’s previously scheduled press conference has been postponed. Many are in mourning and we hope that peace and comfort can enter the hearts of those who cared for Elijah. #RIP
— Matt Gaetz (@mattgaetz) October 17, 2019
We lost a giant today. Congressman Elijah Cummings was a fearless leader, a protector of democracy, and a fighter for the people of Maryland. Our world is dimmer without him in it.
— Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) October 17, 2019
Our country has lost a giant.
Congressman Elijah Cummings was a true leader in our fight for a more fair and just society. A civil rights activist, a dedicated public servant, and a powerful force for good – he left his mark on our communities.
Rest in power, my friend.
— NY AG James (@NewYorkStateAG) October 17, 2019
RIP
Rep. Elijah Cummings dies at age 68 https://t.co/oKzrQTPlLS
— Jake Tapper (@jaketapper) October 17, 2019
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