For more than 35 years, I’ve watched the Congresswoman serve our community with vigor and integrity. She followed in the footsteps of Barbara Jordan, Mickey Leland, and Craig Washington with dignity and helped preserve the legacy of this historic seat.

Only Sheila’s passing at this critical moment in the election cycle could bring me out of retirement. Given all the uncertainty at the national level, I believe the 18th District needs stability and continuity in leadership.

We must keep federal resources flowing into the district to address challenges such as the cancer cluster in Fifth Ward and Kashmere Gardens, and continued funding for local organizations for health care, flood mitigation and education.

Our next representative must also meet the high bar of compassion, caring, and humanity that was the hallmark of Sheila’s leadership and public service. Comforting families who have lost loved ones, spending quality time with seniors while offering a helping hand – for me, these commitments deserve equal attention as the Washington duties of a member of Congress.