Nita Lowey, a Democrat who represented Westchester County for 32 years, died at the age of 87. She was the first woman to lead the powerful House Appropriations Committee and played a key role in shaping legislation to advance liberal causes. Throughout her tenure, she sponsored or helped mold legislation on women's rights, federal funding for homeless programs, and child care and early education. She was also a strong advocate for the New York region, fighting for funding after 9/11 and pushing for the shutdown of the Indian Point nuclear power plant.