Rep. Bill Pascrell, the 87-year-old Democratic congressman from New Jersey, is showing signs of improvement after being hospitalized at St. Joseph’s University Medical Center in Paterson. Pascrell was admitted on July 14 with a fever and subsequently received breathing assistance due to a respiratory infection. However, according to his Chief of Staff Ben Rich, Pascrell has been breathing on his own since last week and is making steady progress toward recovery.
Rich conveyed the medical team’s optimism, indicating that discharge plans are being discussed and a full recovery is anticipated. Despite his recent health setback, Pascrell remains committed to his role and has no plans to withdraw from the upcoming election. He recently won a decisive primary victory against Prospect Park Mayor Mohamed Khairullah, a contest influenced by differing views on issues like Gaza. Pascrell is set to face Republican Billy Prempeh in the November election.
Pascrell, who has served in Congress since 1997, is the oldest member of New Jersey’s congressional delegation. If reelected, he will become the oldest member of the House following the retirement of Rep. Grace Napolitano of California. He was previously hospitalized in 2020 for heart bypass surgery but has continued to serve his district.
In a statement, Rich emphasized Pascrell’s eagerness to continue his work, noting that the congressman missed only a few voting days due to his illness. Pascrell’s commitment to his duties remains strong, and he looks forward to campaigning alongside Vice President Kamala Harris in defense of American democracy and New Jersey values.
Pascrell’s hospitalization comes shortly after the death of another New Jersey representative, Donald Payne Jr., who passed away following a heart attack. The health of elderly lawmakers has recently become a topic of concern as they continue to serve in demanding roles.
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