Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr., an 87-year-old Democratic congressman from New Jersey, has been hospitalized again shortly after being discharged, raising questions about his health and potential impact on his reelection campaign just months before the election.
New Jersey Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr. has been hospitalized once more, just days after being discharged from a previous stay. The 87-year-old Democrat, who is one of the oldest members of Congress, was initially treated for a respiratory infection and fever, which required breathing assistance. He was discharged last Wednesday after a three-week stay at St. Joseph’s in Paterson and transferred to a rehabilitation facility. However, Pascrell checked into St. Barnabas in Livingston on Sunday evening.
Pascrell’s Political Standing Amid Health Issues
Despite his advanced age and recent health issues, Rep. Pascrell won the Democratic primary in June and is seeking his 15th term in the House. He previously underwent heart surgery in 2020 to address blocked arteries. Although his recent hospitalization was not widely known until Monday, political figures and allies have expressed support for him. Passaic County Democratic Chair John Currie, upon hearing the news, stated that he fully supports Pascrell’s candidacy as long as the congressman wishes to run for reelection.
Potential Implications for the Upcoming Election
Pascrell’s health issues have prompted speculation about whether he might withdraw from the upcoming election. However, no major political publications have classified his race as competitive, despite his district becoming less Democratic-dominated after redistricting. If Pascrell were to drop out, Democratic committee members from the district’s towns would select a new nominee before the August 29 deadline. So far, there is no talk of replacing him as the nominee, and political allies are focused on his recovery.
Election Challenge and District Dynamics
Pascrell is facing his third consecutive challenge from Republican Billy Prempeh, whom he defeated by 12 points in 2022. Although his district has seen changes due to redistricting, it remains a Democratic stronghold, and Pascrell has consistently won by significant margins. His health and ability to continue his campaign will be closely watched as the election approaches.
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