Harris releases statement on passing of former state Rep. Harold James
Rep. Jordan A. Harris April 30, 2022 | 9:02 AM
PHILADELPHIA, April 30 – State Rep. Jordan Harris, D-Phila., House Democratic whip, released the following statement on the passing of his predecessor, state Rep. Harold James:
“My deepest condolences go out to Representative James’ family on the passing of their loved one. I knew him quite well and his service to our community was paramount to who he was as a man.
“Representative James served our community and the entire city of Philadelphia as a police officer for 22 years, putting his life on the line to protect others. Prior to that, he served his nation in the U.S. Army. Not satisfied with that service being enough, Representative James was elected to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in 1988 to serve the residents of the 186th Legislative District.
“While a member of the House for 20 years, Representative James fought for increased education funding, protection for our seniors, and laid the groundwork for criminal justice reform that we see happening now. Thanks in part to his pursuit of justice, Representative James was chosen to serve as the first majority chairman of the Gaming Oversight Committee when it was formed following the legalization of gambling. He fought for minority inclusion in the gaming industry and was always vocal about community development in the areas that hosted Pennsylvania’s first casinos.
“I’m thankful that I was fortunate enough to know Representative James as well as I did. He was a shining example of selfless service to not only his community, but his city and his nation. I’m praying for his family and hoping their memories of him will comfort them and stay in their heart as they deal with his tragic loss.”