New Jersey Congressman Donald Payne dead at age 65

New Jersey Democrat Rep. Donald Payne Jr. has died at the age of 65. 

Payne suffered a heart attack on April 6 and since then was in a coma intubated at the Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, according to the New Jersey Globe. 

He had struggled with health issues in the past such as diabetes and liver problems.

Previously, his office had mentioned that Payne was on the mend after suffering a heart attack in early April.

A spokesperson for his office said in an April 17 statement, 'Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. suffered a cardiac episode based on complications from his diabetes last week.'

The statement continued that Payne was 'in stable condition at a local hospital and continues to be under doctor’s care.'

 New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy posted on X that he and his wife 'are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of our friend, and a steadfast champion for the people of New Jersey, Congressman Donald Payne, Jr.'

'Our heartfelt prayers are with his family during this difficult time.'

More to come.