Pelosi Statement on the Passing of Chairman Eliot Engel

San Francisco - Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi issued the following statement released the following statement on the passing of former Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Eliot Engel:

"It is with great sadness that I learned of the passing of a great Member of Congress, Chairman Eliot Engel. For more than three decades in the Congress, Eliot was a champion for his constituents in the Bronx and Westchester and a deeply respected leader on the world stage. As Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, he helped shape American foreign policy with strength and principle-advancing democracy, standing up for human rights and reinforcing our alliances. He was a persistent advocate on global security and public health, including the fight against HIV/AIDS.

"As a legislator who believed deeply in bipartisan progress, Eliot brought deep knowledge, moral clarity and a steady, thoughtful voice to every challenge. He was always guided by his belief in America's responsibility to lead with both power and purpose. But beyond his extraordinary record of service, I will remember Eliot for his warmth, his decency and his quiet kindness. I was proud to work alongside him and to call him a friend. May it be a comfort to Eliot's wife Pat, children Julia, Jonathan and Philip, and all who loved him that so many are praying for them at this sad time."