Nita Lowey, Longtime Hudson Valley Congresswoman, Passes Away at 87

Former Congresswoman Nita M. Lowey, who represented New York’s Hudson Valley for 32 years, passed away on March 15, 2025, at the age of 87. Surrounded by her family at her home in Harrison, New York, Lowey had been quietly battling metastatic breast cancer in recent years.

Born Nita Sue Melnikoff on July 5, 1937, in the Bronx, New York, Lowey graduated as valedictorian from the Bronx High School of Science in 1955. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Mount Holyoke College in 1959. Her political career began with her involvement in Mario Cuomo’s 1974 campaign for lieutenant governor of New York, followed by 13 years as assistant secretary of state for New York.

In 1988, Lowey was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, representing New York’s 20th congressional district, which later became the 18th and then the 17th due to redistricting. Her district encompassed parts of Westchester and Rockland counties, including communities such as White Plains, Purchase, and Tarrytown.

Throughout her tenure, Lowey was a staunch advocate for women’s health, education, and public broadcasting. As co-chair of the Bipartisan Congressional Caucus for Women’s Issues, she secured increased funding for breast cancer research and protected funding for domestic violence awareness and child support programs. She also played a pivotal role in preserving funding for the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) during budgetary threats.

In 2018, Lowey broke new ground by becoming the first woman to chair the House Appropriations Committee, where she influenced federal spending and policy. She was also a member of several caucuses, including the House Pro-Choice Caucus, Hudson River Caucus, Israel Allies Caucus, National Eating Disorders Awareness Caucus, and Congressional Arts Caucus.

Lowey’s commitment to public service was deeply rooted in her Jewish faith, particularly the principle of “Tikkun Olam,” or repairing the world. She was an active member of the United Jewish Appeal and the Jewish Community Center of Harrison.

She is survived by her husband of 64 years, Stephen Lowey, their three children—Dana, Jacqueline, and Douglas—and eight grandchildren. Her family described her as a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, emphasizing that family was central to her life.

Lowey’s legacy as a trailblazer for women in politics and a dedicated public servant will be remembered by her constituents and colleagues alike. Her life’s work stands as a testament to her unwavering dedication to the causes she championed.