By Mede Nix
Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson announced on Saturday she won’t run for another term in Congress, touching off tributes from the heart of her district in southern Dallas to Washington D.C.
Here is some of the reaction Saturday:
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi:
“Chairwoman Eddie Bernice Johnson has been a dedicated and highly effective leader on behalf of Dallas area families and the entire nation for her thirty years in the Congress and nearly 50 years in public service. She has used her gavel as the powerful Chair of the Science, Space, and Technology Committee to advance great progress for America, and her leadership and friendship will be missed by many in the Congress. Chairwoman Johnson has made history — from being the first Black woman elected to state public office from Dallas, to being the first African American and first woman Chair of the House Committee on Science, Space and Technology — whose leadership has made a difference in our nation. Chairwoman Johnson has made progress, as a lawmaker with a track record of success for America’s children and future, including to promote STEM education, ensure diversity and inclusion in science and combat the climate crisis with a firm focus on innovation.”
U.S. Rep. Colin Allred, D-Dallas:
“Whether you are from Dallas or not, nearly every Texan has benefited in some way from the work of Congresswoman Johnson. Her legacy is remarkable, and I can tell you firsthand from our shared work on the Transportation Committee, that no one works harder for their constituents. In the coming year, there will be more than enough time to reflect and celebrate all she has done for our state. I join my fellow Texans in saying that Congress is losing a giant and a powerful force for good. Thank you, Congresswoman Johnson, for your service.”
Rep. Henry Cuellar, D-Laredo:
“As one of the longest serving members of Congress, she has overcome many barriers and served her Dallas district with the dignity and honor. Congratulations and thank you for your service.”
Rep. Frank Lucas, R-Okla., ranking member on the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee:
“I have had the honor of serving alongside Chairwoman Johnson for more than two decades in Congress. Since 2019 we have worked closely together as the Chair and Ranking Member of the Science Committee, and there is no one I would rather have as my counterpart across the aisle. EBJ, as I affectionately call her, is a true public servant and she cares deeply about supporting American science. While we don’t always agree on the best way to do that, we are usually able to find common ground and work together to pass strong, bipartisan policies. She’s an old-school legislator who cares more about results than headlines, and I respect that deeply.”
Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson:
“Congresswoman Johnson has devoted her life to helping others, first as a nurse and then as a public servant. Her support, her friendship, and her dedication to the people of Dallas have meant the world to me. I will miss being able to count on her leadership in Washington on behalf of our city and our state, but I wish her a long, happy, and healthy retirement. She has certainly earned it.”
Dallas County District Attorney John Creuzot:
“No one is held that position with such dignity and respect, and not only represented her congressional district but all of Texans and the best interests of Americans. We’re going to miss her.”
Irish Watson, Dallas hair salon owner and community activist:
“She’s paved the way for someone else to come along and follow in her footsteps. The person that takes her place, they’ve got to be a hell of a person and someone that’s for the people and will fight for their constituents.”
Terry Allen, founder of City Men Cook:
“I am pleased with her legacy. She is a great example, a historical example of what success looks like in politics for people of color, especially women of color.”
State Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Dallas
“I thank Congresswoman Johnson not just for her decades of service, but for the sacrefices she has made, her fierce bravery, and her tenacity.”
Harris County commissioner and former state Sen. Rodney Ellis:
“She has blazed a trail like no other & will leave a legacy for many generations. I wish her all the best in her next endeavors & join a grateful state in celebrating her accomplishments & commitment to the people of Texas.”
