Former New York Congressman John LaFalce dead at 85

Former New York Democratic Congressman John LaFalce has died at the age of 85, according to a report from WKBW. The news was confirmed to the outlet by Erie County Democratic Chairman Jeremy Zellner.

According to the outlet, LaFalce served in Congress and represented Western New York from 1975 to 2003, and before that, served in the New York State Assembly and Senate. He was born in Buffalo, New York and served in the Vietnam War. The former congressman died late on Friday at Niagara Hospice.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul posted in reaction to his death, “Congressman John LaFalce was a champion for Western New York. He was also my first boss when I worked on Capitol Hill, my mentor, and a dear friend. I’m so grateful to have been able to visit him last year. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones.”

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer wrote on X in reaction to LaFalce's death, "Saddened by the passing of my friend former Rep. John LaFalce We served together in the House and I saw firsthand his dedication to WNY and working families He led with principle, compassion, & a deep sense of fairness."

During his service in Congress, LaFace was the top Democratic representative on the House Financial Services Committee. He graduated from Canisius College (now University) and then went Villanova University for law school, The Buffalo News reported.

After he retired from his time in Congress, LaFalce served a little over a year as the chair of the Erie County Industrial Development Agency.

He is survived by his son, Martin, as well as his wife, Patricia.