senator frank lautenberg of new jersey has passed away at 89 years old, from complications having to do with viral pneumonia. he was the oldest member of the united states senate. he has struggled with health problems since last year. he missed several weeks of votes due to some of the complications of these illnesses. he was, as i said, a democrat. longest serving senator in new jersey history. creates a vacancy that will have to be filled by governor chris christie. been a lot of discussion about who might run for that seat, including mayor cory booker of newark is on the list of people who is said to be possibilities for that. it should also be mentioned he returned to washington in february and announced he would not seek re-election in 2014. it did open up that spot at that point. hoped to create a series of accomplishments before the end of his term. news just crossing moments ago, long, long, term serving senator, frank lautenberg dead at age 89. bill: 19 minutes before the