WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) issued the following statement on the passing of Congressman Elijah E. Cummings (D-MD):

“I had the privilege to serve alongside Elijah Cummings and am deeply saddened by his passing.  He was a steadfast champion of working families and a fierce defender of our democracy.  He helped break barriers and uplift communities.

“With the passing of Elijah Cummings, Baltimore and Americans everywhere have lost a valiant public servant. The son of a sharecropper, Elijah Cummings became a powerful voice for justice, peace, and civil rights. We mourn his loss, and the best way to honor his legacy is to continue his work.”