Eliot Engel, a longtime Democratic congressman who represented parts of the Bronx, Westchester, and Rockland County, was niftar on Friday at the age of 79, his family announced.
He served 16 terms in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1989 until 2021 after first being elected in 1988. Over more than four decades in public service, Congressman Eliot Engel earned a reputation as a strong advocate for his constituents and a leading voice on foreign policy, particularly in support of Israel.
His family said he passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones in the Bronx. “During his over 44 years in public service, he fought tirelessly for his constituents at home and for peace and security around the world,” the family said. “We love and miss him dearly.”
Congressman Eliot Engel was widely regarded as one of the most outspoken pro-Israel Democrats in Congress and was a vocal opponent of the 2015 Iran nuclear deal under Barack Obama, citing concerns it would not prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons.
He later served as Ranking Member and Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, playing a key role in shaping U.S. foreign policy.
From 1993 through 2013, he represented New York’s 17th Congressional District, which included parts of Rockland County.
In 2020, he was defeated in the Democratic primary by Jamaal Bowman, who went on to win the general election.
The Rockland County Legislature issued a statement mourning his passing, noting that he “earned a reputation as a strong advocate for his constituents,” and worked to strengthen communities through healthcare reform, consumer protections, and other key issues. The Legislature also highlighted his strong support for recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and his efforts promoting fair employment and non-discrimination practices abroad. The Legislature added that he was a familiar presence in Rockland County, frequently visiting residents and following up on their concerns, and extended condolences to his family, stating, “May his memory always be a blessing.”
Congressman Mike Lawler said, “Eliot Engel served our community for decades, working tirelessly across party lines to protect Americans at home and abroad. As Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee, he was ever a statesman. Keeping his family in our prayers. May his memory always be a blessing to our nation.”
Rockland County Executive Ed Day said, “Rockland County mourns the loss of Congressman Eliot Engel, a dedicated public servant who represented our community with distinction for more than a decade. For over 30 years, he served in Congress, including representing Rockland from 1993 to 2013. On behalf of the County of Rockland, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of working alongside him. He will be remembered for his enduring contributions to public service and to the people of Rockland County.”
Engel’s passing marks the end of a long and influential career in public service, remembered for his decades of advocacy on behalf of his constituents and his steadfast support for Israel.