Supervisor Cook's Statement on Death of Former Congressman Jerry Lewis

Supervisor Paul Cook was saddened to learn that former Congressman Jerry Lewis passed away. Lewis represented portions of San Bernardino County, including large parts of the 1^st Supervisorial District, for more than 30 years.

Lewis, 86, was first elected to Congress in 1978. During his decades in Congress, he rose to become the Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, using his seniority to ensure that San Bernardino County received critically needed federal funds. This included hundreds of millions of dollars to clear dead and dying trees in our national forests, reducing the threat of catastrophic wildfires. Lewis also was a champion for our military, fighting to ensure our troops had the equipment and training they needed. Lewis retired from Congress in 2012 and was succeeded by Paul Cook.

Said Cook, “Jerry was a good friend, and a champion for San Bernardino County. Our troops and first responders were always at the forefront of Jerry’s mind, and he consistently prioritized funding for our national security abroad and public safety here at home. During my time in city government and later in the State Assembly, I knew that Jerry was always someone I could go to when my constituents needed federal help and I tried to continue his legacy during my own service in Congress. I’m deeply grateful to have known Jerry and send my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.”