(Washington, D.C.)  Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) and Congresswoman Lois Capps (D-CA) released the following statement regarding the passing of Congresswoman Juanita Millender-McDonald:

“On behalf of the Congressional Caucus for Women’s Issues, we would like to extend our condolences to the family, friends, and constituents of Congresswoman Juanita Millender-McDonald.

“Congresswoman Millender-McDonald served in the Congress with distinction, working with passion and dedication for the benefit of her community and her country. This talented public servant was a champion for several issues including fighting HIV/AIDS, improving women’s health, encouraging women in business, protecting voting rights, and stopping the genocide in Darfur.

“Beyond her activism on a diverse body of issues, Congresswoman Millender-McDonald was a trail blazer. She became the first African American woman in history to chair a committee in Congress, the House Administration Committee. She was also a Co-Chair of the Congressional Caucus for Women’s Issues, serving with Congresswoman Judy Biggert in the 107th Congress.

“All of us will miss our colleague and our thoughts and prayers are with her family during this difficult time.”