Elijah Cummings was born on January 18, 1951, in Baltimore, Maryland. He grew up in the city and attended Baltimore City College for his high school education. With a keen interest in politics, he went on to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Political Science from Howard University. This laid the foundation for his future career in public service.
After completing his undergraduate studies, Cummings continued his education at the University of Maryland School of Law, where he earned his Juris Doctor in 1976. He then began practicing law, using his legal knowledge and skills to serve his community. In 1996, his dedication to public service led him to run for office, and he was elected as the representative for Maryland's 7th congressional district.
Throughout his time in Congress, Cummings was a strong voice for justice and accountability. As the Chair of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, he worked tirelessly to hold those in power accountable and protect the interests of the American people.
One of Cummings' most significant contributions was his efforts to uncover and investigate the financial records of former President Donald Trump. He believed in the importance of transparency and worked to ensure that all public officials were held to the highest ethical standards.
In addition to his work in Congress, Cummings was also a prolific writer. He penned a biweekly column for the Baltimore Afro-American newspaper, using his platform to share his thoughts and insights on a range of issues affecting his community.
Outside of his political career, Elijah Cummings was a devoted husband and father. In 2008, he married Maya Rockeymoore, with whom he had three children. His family was a source of strength and support throughout his life, and his legacy lives on in the values and principles he instilled in them.
Elijah Cummings passed away on October 17, 2019, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, dedication, and leadership. He will be remembered as a champion for justice and equality, a tireless advocate for the people he served, and a true statesman in every sense of the word.