Hillside Democratic Committee Chairman Anthony Salters this morning issued a statement in response to news of the death of U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings of Baltimore.

“Today is a very sad day for this country,” Salters said. “Congressman Elijah Cummings (CD-7) from Maryland passed away early this morning. Congressman Cummings was a strong vocal presence who fiercely fought for his constituency (includes Baltimore). He was a ferocious friend and opponent, a detailed oriented strategist and tactician. He was as compassionate to the righteous and human suffering as one could possibly be. What a loss. He will be missed but he left his mark and a tremendous legacy he can surely be proud of. Job well done, Congressman Cummings.”