North Texas congressman Ron Wright has died at age 67, according to reports.
Wright died Sunday a statement from his campaign staff says. Wright and his wife, Susan, had been admitted to Baylor Hospital in Dallas after contracting COVID-19. The congressman had also been battling cancer.
Wright represented Texas' 6th congressional district since 2019 which includes Arlington and other parts of southeastern Tarrant County, as well as portions of Ellis and Navarro counties.
Wright was a former Arlington City Councilman, a former Tarrant County tax assessor, a legislative aid, and since 2018 a Congressman from the district Joe Barton had served for years.
"He brought a personality of stability, and of fairness during a time of great struggle" said friend and mentor, Ellis County Judge Todd Little.
Wright had just started his second term in office, having won re-election last November by nine percentage points.
A special election will need to be held to fill the now-vacant seat.
Congressman Wright is survived by his wife, Susan; his son Derek; his son Justin and wife Susan; his daughter Rachel and husband Jeff; his brother Gary and wife Janis; nine grandchildren; cousins and extended family.
*This is a developing story. Follow 1080 KRLD for the latest information.
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“The Texas Democratic Party offers our heartfelt condolences to the family of Congressman Ron Wright and to all of those who loved and cared for him. The outpouring of prayers and support shows the type of man Wright was and how beloved he was by many Texans across the state" said a statement from Texas Democratic Party Chair Gilberto Hinojosa. “This loss serves as a tragic reminder that we must remain vigilant fighting against this deadly virus. To Congressman Wright’s friends, family, and constituents, we are with you today.”
Texas Governor Greg Abbott today issued a statement following the news of the death of U.S. Congressman Ron Wright: “I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of U.S. Rep. Ron Wright. Ron was a principled leader who fought to preserve Texas values and was an exemplary representative of his district. His personal strength and commitment to standing up for the unborn were unwavering. He leaves behind a tremendous legacy for future generations of Texans. Cecilia and I send our prayers to Ron's wife, Susan, his family and loved ones.”
“Ron was a passionate public servant and a strong advocate for Texas values, his neighbors in North Texas, and constituents across Texas’ 6th District,” said US Senator John Cornyn (Texas). “A sixth-generation resident of Tarrant County, he was a Texan first and foremost, and we saw that every day as he put his community first. My heart goes out to his wife, Susan, and his children and grandchildren, whom I hope find solace in his legacy of service.”