Elijah Eugene Cummings, the Veteran US Democratic congressman, has died due to “longstanding health challenges” at 68, according to this office.
He was the member of the U.S. House of Representatives for Maryland’s 7th congressional district and was majorly involved in the Trump impeachment inquiry, prompting several investigations into the Trump administration. He also played a pivotal in clashing alginates the administration officials over immigration and healthcare.
Cummings had experienced a variety of health issues in recent years and had to undergo treatment for his heart condition.
After the news of his death, former president Barack Obama and President Trump have paid tribute to Cummings.
Obama tweeted, “Michelle and I are heartbroken over the passing of our friend, Elijah Cummings. May his example inspire more Americans to pick up the baton and carry it forward in a manner worthy of his service.”
The former president said, “Cummings showed us all not only the importance of checks and balances within our democracy, but also the necessity of good people stewarding it. Chairman Cummings stood tallest and most resolute when our country needed him the most.”
President Trump tweeted, “My warmest condolences to the family and many friends of Congressman Elijah Cummings. I got to see first hand the strength, passion and wisdom of this highly respected political leader. His work and voice on so many fronts will be very hard, if not impossible, to replace!”
Paying respect for Cummings’ longstanding public service, Trump order all flags to be flown at the White House and on US government properties.
Baltimore Mayor Bernard Young said, “The city of Baltimore, our country and people throughout the world have lost a powerful voice and one of the strongest and most gifted crusaders for social justice.”
Born on January 18, 1951, in Baltimore, Cummings was the third child of seven children born to parents who were sharecroppers and the descendants of slaves. In 1969, he graduated with honors from the Baltimore City College high school. He graduated in 1973 with a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science. In 1996, he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives.
