Alcee Hastings, longtime Florida congressman, dies at 84

Representative Alcee Hastings, the fiercely liberal longtime Florida congressman who was dogged throughout his tenure by an impeachment that ended his fast-rising judicial career, died Tuesday. He was 84.

Hastings' congressional office confirmed his death Tuesday morning. Hastings, a Democrat, announced two years ago that he had pancreatic cancer. Hastings was known as an advocate for minorities, a defender of Israel and a voice for gays, immigrants, women and the elderly. He held senior posts on the House Rules Committee and the Helsinki Commission, which works with other countries on a variety of multinational issues.