Washington, DC- Today, Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell issued the following statement on the passing of Alabama State Representative Demetrius Newton:

 “Today, Jefferson County and the State of Alabama mourn the loss of an incredible statesman and public servant. I am deeply saddened to hear of the loss of State Representative and Civil Rights attorney Demetrius Newton.  We owe a debt of gratitude to Rep. Demetrius Newton for paving the way for black attorneys and elected officials across the State of Alabama. During his 27 years as a state legislator, Rep. Newton served as Alabama’s first black Speaker Pro Tem of the State House and he never gave up on his tireless efforts to reform and strengthen Alabama’s Constitution.

My thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and colleagues of Rep. Newton during this difficult time.”

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Contact: Hillary Beard - 202.225.2665 - Hillary.Beard@mail.house.gov