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Remembering Elijah E. Cummings

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Congressman Elijah E. Cummings, longtime Baltimore civil rights icon and a lifetime member of the NAACP died at Johns Hopkins Hospital Thursday. Cummings was 68 and died due to complications concerning longstanding health challenges, according to a statement released by his office.

Cummings served as the chair of the House Oversight Committee and was a key figure in investigating President Donald Trump. CNN reports that Rep. Carolyn Maloney will become the acting chair of the House Oversight Committee following Cummings’ death.

Former President Barack Obama said he and his wife Michelle are heartbroken over the passing of their friend.

“It’s a tribute to his native Baltimore that one of its own brought such character, tact and resolve into the halls of power every day,” Obama said in a statement.

House speaker Nancy Pelosi said she is personally devastated following Cummings’ death.

“In the house, Elijah was our North Star,” Pelosi said in her statement. “He was a leader of towering character and integrity whose stirring voice and steadfast values pushed the Congress and country to rise always to a higher purpose.”

The NAACP also issued a statement following the passing of the Congressman.

“From his days in the Maryland General Assembly to his key role in the Trump impeachment inquiry as chairman of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, Congressman Cummings dedicated his life to combating oppression in all its forms — and holding oppressors accountable,” said Derrick Johnson, president and CEO of the NAACP.

“Among the many accolades he received throughout his storied life, his legacy of championing issues, facing injustice head-on and speaking truth to power will forever be a part of his greatest contributions,” said Leon W. Russell, chairman of the NAACP Board of Directors.

“Congressman Cummings consistently brought attention to the plight of African-Americans and oppressed populations throughout his 23-year service in the U.S. House of Representatives,” the statement adds. “We are deeply saddened by his passing but profoundly grateful for the contributions he made in his lifetime. The NAACP extends our sincere condolences to his family and sends prayers of comfort and strength for the days to come.”

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