US Senator Frank R. Lautenberg is dead at age 89. The NJ Democrat was a 5-Term Senator who fought the tobacco and alcohol industries and also promoted Amtrak while on Capitol Hill, following a successful business career. The cause was complications of viral pneumonia and he died on Monday in Manhattan with stomach cancer.
Senator Lautenberg made a special effort in May to attend a hearing to support President Obama’s nominee to lead the Environmental Protection Agency. His death puts political leaders in a difficult position.
NJ Governor Christie, a Republican governor is expected to name another GOP member to succeed Senator Frank R. Lautenberg, which will now be costing the White House and Congressional Democrats a very important vote.
Photo: Associated Press