San Francisco – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today on the passing of Mervyn Dymally:

"For more than 50 years, Mervyn Dymally was a force in California and national politics.

"As Lieutenant Governor of California, Mervyn worked on some of the most significant issues of our time: the education of our children and the health of our people.  In Congress, he was respected for his leadership of the Congressional Black Caucus and for his foreign policy expertise, particularly on the issues of human rights and U.S relations in Africa.

"Merv knew how to build a political network better than nearly anyone.  He opened doors for the next generation of minority leaders.  He remained committed to public service for his entire life, serving not just as an elder statesman but a public official well into his eighties.

"I hope it is a comfort to his family, especially his wife of 44 years, Alice, and his children Mark and Lynn, that so many grieve their loss and are praying for them at this sad time."