Pelosi Statement on the Passing of Congressman Louis Stokes

Contact: Drew Hammill, 202-226-7616

San Francisco – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi today released this statement on the passing of former Congressman Louis Stokes, the first African American to represent Ohio in the U.S. House of Representatives, who passed away today at age 90:

"Today, we mourn the loss of a trailblazing and courageous legislator who gave 30 years of service in the House: Congressman Louis Stokes. Lou Stokes was a patriot in the finest sense of the word – absolutely committed to our country, and to making it better.

"A man of humble beginnings and high principles, Lou's integrity and his commitment to the less advantaged were unsurpassed. As Chair of the Intelligence Committee, Lou was a great champion for diversity, an enduring legacy embodied by the Stokes Scholarship program. He was a leader in pushing the reforms the Iran/Contra investigation found necessary. On the Ethics Committee, he always maintained the highest possible standards. On the Appropriations Committee, he ensured our budget priorities reflected our national values. He was a pioneering figure in the House and a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus.

"In every arena, Lou's insistence that America could fulfill the promise of our Founders was evident in the causes he championed, the victories he won and the lives he touched. He will be mourned by friends and colleagues on both sides of the aisle who had the privilege to serve alongside him. May it be a source of comfort to his beloved wife, Jay, their four children, grandchildren and the entire Stokes family that so many share in their sorrow and remembrance at this difficult time."

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