OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
A sitting Republican congressman has passed away.
Minnesota Rep. Jim Hagedorn died at the age of 59, his wife Jennifer Carnahan said on Facebook, Fox News reported.
Hagedorn was elected to represent Minnesota’s mostly rural 1st Congressional District south of Minneapolis in 2018. Shortly after being sworn in, he was first diagnosed with kidney cancer.
Hagedorn’s office informed Republican leadership of his death Friday morning, Fox News is told.
“It is with a broken heart, shattered spirit and overwhelming sadness I share my husband Congressman Jim Hagedorn passed away peacefully last night,” his wife said.
“Jim loved our country and loved representing the people of southern Minnesota. Every moment of every day he lived his dream by serving others. There was no stronger conservative in our state than my husband; and it showed in how he voted, led and fought for our country.
“Jim was a loving husband, son, brother, uncle, cousin, nephew, friend, brother-in-law, son-in-law, Vikings, Penguins and Twins fan and will be missed and remembered by many,” she said on Facebook.
“While nothing can accurately prepare you for the unimaginable pain, intense sorrow, suffocating grief and seemingly never-ending emptiness that engulfs the entire body, soul and spirit when your forever love passes away; at least we can smile knowing Jim is smiling from heaven encouraging us to keep chasing our dreams, loving unconditionally and fighting for the country.
“Jim Hagedorn, I love you. I miss you. I feel empty without you. I will forever be holding your hand,” she said.
The house now has 433 members, 222 Democrats, 211 Republicans, and two vacancies.
“Congressman Jim Hagedorn was a patriot who will be remembered for his strong Christian faith, his deep passion for serving others, and his joyful spirit. May God bless his wife Jennifer and their entire family as we lift them up in prayer during this difficult time,” House Minority Leader and California Rep. Kevin McCarthy said on Twitter.
Congressman Jim Hagedorn was a patriot who will be remembered for his strong Christian faith, his deep passion for serving others, and his joyful spirit.
May God bless his wife Jennifer and their entire family as we lift them up in prayer during this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/iuIGQyKRt7
— Kevin McCarthy (@GOPLeader) February 18, 2022
“Jim was a dear friend who wanted nothing more than to represent the people of Minnesota’s First District in Congress. He did so every day with an unwavering passion and unshakable joy that brightened the halls of Congress and brought the best of Blue Earth to Washington. Our thoughts are with Jim’s family during this time and we will continue to pray for them. We will miss Jim dearly,” fellow Minnesota Representatives, Michelle Fischbach, Tom Emmer and Pete Stauber, said.
“Gwen and I are thinking of Congressman Jim Hagedorn’s family and loved ones today. May they find peace during this difficult time,” Gov. Tim Walz said.
Gwen and I are thinking of Congressman Jim Hagedorn’s family and loved ones today. May they find peace during this difficult time.
— Governor Tim Walz (@GovTimWalz) February 18, 2022
“I’m saddened to hear about the passing of Rep. Hagedorn. He was a fighter for his constituents and a friend to so many, including me. Through his battle against cancer, he showed a level of determination that should inspire us all. My condolences to Jennifer and all his family,” Minnesota Democrat Sen. Amy Klobuchar said.
I’m saddened to hear about the passing of Rep. Hagedorn. He was a fighter for his constituents and a friend to so many, including me. Through his battle against cancer, he showed a level of determination that should inspire us all. My condolences to Jennifer and all his family.
— Amy Klobuchar (@amyklobuchar) February 18, 2022
“I am deeply sorry to learn of my colleague Congressman Hagedorn’s death. Adam and I are praying for his wife and entire family as they mourn his passing,” Virginia Rep. Abigail Spanberger said.
I am deeply sorry to learn of my colleague Congressman Hagedorn’s death.
Adam and I are praying for his wife and entire family as they mourn his passing.https://t.co/riHaciQhGl
— Rep. Abigail Spanberger (@RepSpanberger) February 18, 2022
“Praying for peace and comfort to surround the Hagedorn family right now. @RepHagedorn was a true patriot and dutifully served our country. He will be sorely missed. May God’s unwavering support be with his loved ones during this time,” Arizona Rep. Andy Biggs said.
Praying for peace and comfort to surround the Hagedorn family right now. @RepHagedorn was a true patriot and dutifully served our country. He will be sorely missed.
May God’s unwavering support be with his loved ones during this time.
— Rep Andy Biggs (@RepAndyBiggsAZ) February 18, 2022
Jacquie & I are heartbroken over the loss of my friend and colleague, Congressman Jim Hagedorn. Our prayers go out to the entire Hagedorn family. Jim was a true fighter representing the people of MN-1 and it was an honor to serve with him. You will be missed dearly, Jim.
— Tom Emmer (@tomemmer) February 18, 2022
“Jacquie & I are heartbroken over the loss of my friend and colleague, Congressman Jim Hagedorn. Our prayers go out to the entire Hagedorn family. Jim was a true fighter representing the people of MN-1 and it was an honor to serve with him. You will be missed dearly, Jim,” Minnesota Rep. Tom Emmer said.
