Charles Rangel, Long-Serving Congressman, Dies At 94

“Charles Rangel, Long-Serving Congressman, Dies at 94

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Charles Rangel, Long-Serving Congressman, Dies at 94

Charles Rangel, the charismatic and influential New York Congressman who represented Harlem for over four decades, has died at the age of 94. Rangel’s death marks the end of an era for the Democratic Party and the civil rights movement, as he was a prominent figure in both.

Rangel was born in Harlem in 1930, and he grew up in a working-class family. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, where he earned a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star for his bravery. After returning home, Rangel attended New York University and St. John’s University School of Law.

In 1966, Rangel was elected to the New York State Assembly. Four years later, he defeated the incumbent Congressman Adam Clayton Powell Jr. in a primary election. Powell was a controversial figure who had been censured by the House of Representatives for misuse of funds. Rangel went on to win the general election and was sworn into office in 1971.

Rangel quickly rose through the ranks of the Democratic Party. He was a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus and served as its chairman from 1975 to 1977. He also served on the powerful Ways and Means Committee, which has jurisdiction over taxes, trade, and Social Security.

Rangel was a staunch advocate for social justice and economic opportunity. He fought for affordable housing, education, and healthcare for all Americans. He was also a strong supporter of civil rights and affirmative action.

During his time in Congress, Rangel was a key player in many important pieces of legislation. He helped to pass the Tax Reform Act of 1986, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and the Affordable Care Act of 2010.

In 2010, Rangel was accused of ethics violations. He was eventually censured by the House of Representatives for financial misconduct. Despite the censure, Rangel remained in office and continued to represent his constituents.

Rangel retired from Congress in 2017. He was succeeded by Adriano Espaillat.

Rangel’s death has been met with sadness and praise from across the political spectrum.

In a statement, President Joe Biden said that Rangel was "a giant of the civil rights movement and a champion for the working class."

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said that Rangel was "a beloved figure in the House of Representatives" and that he "will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to justice and equality."

Rangel is survived by his wife, Alma, and his two children, Steven and Alicia.

Early Life and Military Service

Charles Bernard Rangel was born on June 11, 1930, in Harlem, New York City. His parents, Ralph Rangel and Blanche Wharton Rangel, were of Puerto Rican and African American descent, respectively. Rangel’s early life was marked by poverty and hardship. His father abandoned the family when he was young, and his mother worked multiple jobs to support him and his siblings.

Rangel attended DeWitt Clinton High School in the Bronx but dropped out at the age of 16 to work and help support his family. In 1948, he enlisted in the United States Army. His military service would prove to be a formative experience, shaping his views on leadership, discipline, and the importance of fighting for what one believes in.

During the Korean War, Rangel served with distinction as a gunner in the 503rd Field Artillery Battalion, 2nd Infantry Division. He saw intense combat and displayed remarkable courage under fire. In one particularly harrowing incident, Rangel led a group of soldiers through enemy lines to safety after their unit was ambushed. For his bravery and leadership, he was awarded the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star with Valor.

Rangel’s experiences in the Korean War had a profound impact on him. He witnessed firsthand the horrors of war and the sacrifices made by American soldiers. He also developed a deep sense of patriotism and a commitment to serving his country. After being honorably discharged from the Army in 1952, Rangel returned to New York City with a renewed sense of purpose.

Education and Early Career

Using the G.I. Bill, Rangel enrolled at New York University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in 1957. He then attended St. John’s University School of Law, graduating in 1960. While in law school, Rangel worked as a clerk for a prominent New York law firm.

After graduating from law school, Rangel worked as a private attorney for several years. He also became involved in local politics, joining the Harlem Democratic Club. In 1966, he ran for and was elected to the New York State Assembly, representing the 72nd Assembly District.

In the Assembly, Rangel quickly established himself as a rising star. He was a vocal advocate for civil rights, affordable housing, and education. He also served on several important committees, including the Judiciary Committee and the Ways and Means Committee.

Congressional Career

In 1970, Rangel decided to challenge the incumbent Congressman Adam Clayton Powell Jr. in the Democratic primary. Powell was a controversial figure who had been a dominant force in Harlem politics for decades. However, he had also been plagued by scandal and was facing increasing criticism for his absenteeism and misuse of public funds.

Rangel ran a spirited campaign, focusing on the need for fresh leadership and a new direction for Harlem. He criticized Powell’s ethics and his lack of attention to the needs of his constituents. In a stunning upset, Rangel defeated Powell in the primary election.

In the general election, Rangel easily defeated his Republican opponent. He was sworn into office in January 1971, becoming the first African American to represent Harlem in Congress since Powell.

Rangel quickly made his mark in Congress. He was a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus and served as its chairman from 1975 to 1977. He also served on the powerful Ways and Means Committee, which has jurisdiction over taxes, trade, and Social Security.

Throughout his career, Rangel was a staunch advocate for social justice and economic opportunity. He fought for affordable housing, education, and healthcare for all Americans. He was also a strong supporter of civil rights and affirmative action.

Rangel was a key player in many important pieces of legislation, including the Tax Reform Act of 1986, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and the Affordable Care Act of 2010. He was also a leading voice on foreign policy, advocating for human rights and democracy around the world.

Ethics Investigation and Censure

In 2008, the House Ethics Committee began investigating Rangel for alleged ethics violations. The investigation focused on Rangel’s personal finances, including his failure to report rental income from a villa in the Dominican Republic and his use of rent-controlled apartments in New York City.

In 2010, the Ethics Committee found that Rangel had violated House rules. The committee recommended that he be censured, which is a formal reprimand. The full House of Representatives voted to censure Rangel in December 2010.

The ethics investigation and censure were a major blow to Rangel’s reputation. He was forced to step down as chairman of the Ways and Means Committee. However, he remained in office and continued to represent his constituents.

Retirement and Legacy

Rangel retired from Congress in 2017 after serving 46 years in the House of Representatives. He was succeeded by Adriano Espaillat.

Rangel’s legacy is complex and multifaceted. He was a powerful and influential Congressman who fought tirelessly for his constituents and for social justice. He was also a controversial figure who was accused of ethics violations.

Despite the controversies, Rangel is widely regarded as one of the most important African American political leaders of his generation. He was a trailblazer who broke down barriers and paved the way for others. He was also a mentor to many young people who went on to careers in public service.

Rangel’s death marks the end of an era for the Democratic Party and the civil rights movement. He will be remembered as a champion for the working class, a fighter for social justice, and a dedicated public servant. His contributions to the city of New York and the nation as a whole will not be forgotten.

Charles Rangel’s life story is a testament to the power of perseverance, dedication, and a commitment to serving others. From his humble beginnings in Harlem to his distinguished career in Congress, he left an indelible mark on American politics and society. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.