A Newark native, Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in November 2012. Congressman Payne, Jr. is a tireless fighter for New Jersey families, working to create jobs and grow the economy, invest in our children, and ensure the health and safety of our communities.
Job creation and security are at the forefront of Congressman Payne Jr.’s agenda. In representing New Jersey’s 10th Congressional District, which is home to Newark Liberty International Airport, the New Jersey Transit Authority, and Port Newark-Elizabeth Marine Terminal, Congressman Payne, Jr. fights to increase transportation security, water security, chemical hazard prevention, and emergency preparedness to make sure that
New Jerseyans are protected and that businesses that conduct trade at our ports have the security and efficiency they need to effectively engage in commerce.
Congressman Payne, Jr. has built a record of achievement. In 2015, his legislation to improve interoperable communications at the Department of Homeland Security, the DHS Interoperable Communications Act of 2015 (H.R. 615), passed the U.S. Congress and was signed into Public Law by President Barack Obama. He successfully fought for a much-needed $51 billion Hurricane Sandy relief package, and is working closely with federal officials to ensure the funds are delivered to the families and small business owners who need them most.
Congressman Payne, Jr. works to improve and preserve the health of New Jerseyans. Congressman Payne, Jr. is also a vocal advocate for cancer prevention, introducing the National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month Resolution to stress the importance of regular cancer screenings.
Prior to Congress, Congressman Payne, Jr. served as Newark Municipal Council President and Essex County Freeholder-at-Large. As Newark Municipal Council President, he was instrumental in brokering a deal that brought Panasonic’s North American Headquarters to Newark, where the company built a $200 million office tower and is expected to create 1,000 permanent jobs.
Congressman Payne, Jr. also served as director of student transportation for the Essex County Educational Services Commission. Additionally, during his time as a council member, he created an educational leadership program, Embracing Arms, and an after-school academic-athletic program, Above the Rim.
Congressman Payne, Jr. has made preserving the arts a personal mission. He served as a member of the Board of the New Jersey Performing Arts Center. He also created Newark Idol, a program that supports young performing artists.
Congressman Payne, Jr. began his long career in public service when he founded Newark South Ward Junior Democrats, becoming its first president. He also served as an adviser to the YMCA Youth in Government program. He attended Kean College (now Kean University), where he studied graphic arts.
Congressman Payne, Jr. lives in Newark with his wife Beatrice and their triplets, Donald III, Jack, and Yvonne.
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