Former Rep. Nita Lowey, A Hudson Valley Political Powerhouse, Dies

HUDSON VALLEY, NY — A Hudson Valley political icon who made history in ways big and small is being mourned tonight.

Former U.S. Rep. Nita Lowey, a long-serving representative to the U.S. House, has died at age 87.

Lowey was the first woman to chair the powerful House Appropriations Committee.

Lowey's loved ones, in a statement shared by the Westchester County Democratic Committee, said she died Saturday after battling breast cancer. She died in her home in Harrison.

"Nita has quietly and bravely battled metastatic breast cancer in recent years with the same tenacity and strength that she fought throughout her 32-year career in Congress for women, children and families in the U.S. and around the world," the family said, announcing her passing. "Her memory will forever be a blessing to all who had the honor of knowing and loving her, and to the millions of people whose lives she touched."

Gov. Kathy Hochul has ordered flags flown at half-staff Sunday through Monday in honor of her former colleague in the House.

"She was the definition of an excellent public servant: smart, warm. Principled and fearless," Rep. George Latimer said in a statement released on Sunday. "For over 30 years, she represented our home area in Congress with grace and fortitude. Nita Lowey has passed away… but she will be forever remembered. And forever praised."

During her time in Congress, Lowey represented parts of Westchester County, Rockland County, the Bronx and Queens. She was elected to Congress in 1988 and served until she opted to retire rather than seek reelection in 2020.

"Frankly to have a job that I love so very much made this a very difficult choice," Lowey, who became chair of the House Appropriations Committee in 2018, told The Associated Press of her decision to retire. "But I just felt it was time."

U.S. Rep. Mike Lawler, a Republican who now represents Lowey’s congressional district, praised her "bipartisan spirit, commitment to our community, and dedication to the country," in a statement to the AP.

Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins credited Lowell as a mentor and inspiration for the communities she served that will her continue beyond her death.

"Westchester County mourns the passing of former U.S. Congresswoman Nita Lowey," Jenkins said. "She was a tireless advocate for our County, a mentor, a friend and always a beacon of hope. Serving as a U.S. Representative from 1989 until 2021, she championed integrity, honesty and the values of good government. Lowey made history as the first woman to chair the House Appropriations Committee, leaving a legacy of breaking barriers and improving lives. Her commitment to public service will continue to inspire and guide us."

The AP contributed to this report.