Congressman Cleaver statement on the passing of Congresswoman McCarthy

Congressman Emanuel Cleaver, II released the following statement upon the death of his friend and predecessor Congresswoman Karen McCarthy.

“It is with great sadness that I confirm news of the passing of Congresswoman Karen McCarthy. Her fight with Alzheimer’s was devastating and swift and this evening our nation mourns the loss of a true pioneer. She was brave in the face of a truly heartbreaking disease that led to the end of her career in Congress. Our community owes her so very much.”

“Her work as a teacher, an advocate, a state legislator and a Member of Congress helped literally tens of thousands of families in Missouri. Across this nation, millions of children are healthier and happier because of the tireless efforts of Karen McCarthy.”

“My prayers, and I know the thoughts of the people of Missouri’s Fifth District, are with Karen’s family and friends this evening. She was a true public servant and a caring soul. Our community will miss her.”

Congresswoman McCarthy was 63. She served the people of Missouri’s Fifth District in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1995 to 2005. Arrangements will be announced in the coming days.

Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Belton, Raymore and Peculiar, Missouri. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee, House Homeland Security Committee and the Speaker’s Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming. Congressman Cleaver also serves as a Regional Whip of the Democratic Caucus and First Vice-Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus.