Long-serving Congressman Charles Rangel, a former representative of New York and a veteran of four decades in the House, passes away at the age of 94.
Renowned former U.S. Representative Charles Rangel, a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus and influential figure for over four decades, passed away on Monday at the age of 94. Serving in the House of Representatives from 1971 until 2017, Rangel was well-known for his tenure as the chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee.
A Democrat, Rangel was widely respected for his efforts in advocating for justice, equity, and opportunity throughout his service in Congress. Asserting that Rangel was "a towering figure in American politics," his family issued a statement following his death.
The latter stage of Rangel's political career was marked by a significant ethics scandal in 2010. The House Ethics Committee found him guilty of multiple counts of violating House rules, including unreported income, misuse of official resources, and failure to comply with financial disclosure requirements. Though he claimed the violations were due to negligence rather than corrupt intent, the committee issued a rare censure.
Despite being embroiled in the ethics scandal, Rangel was reelected to serve two more terms in Congress, even after being censured by the House of Representatives. Despite the tarnish on his record, he remained a vital force in New York politics, annually remembered for his pioneering role as a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus and for chairing a major House committee.
After leaving Congress, Rangel served as statesman-in-residence at The City College of New York, where his legacy endures through the school's Charles B. Rangel Center for Public Service. The center continues to inspire and train the next generation of public servants.
Tributes poured in for the late congressman from those who worked with him and valued his work. Yvette Clarke, Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, mourned the loss of a "trailblazing" co-founder, describing his legacy as one of tireless advocacy and unwavering dedication to justice and equality.
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi praised Rangel as an impactful legislator, champion of the oppressed, and lifelong voice for the voiceless. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer acknowledged Rangel as a tremendous man and great friend, while Hakeem Jeffries, a fellow New Yorker, hailed him as a transformational force of nature, a master lawmaker, and a phenomenal patriot.
- Rangel's influence extended beyond domestic politics, as he was a significant figure in international policy-and-legislation, particularly in advocating for justice and equality on the global stage.
- His tenure as chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee wasn't just about general news and economic policies; it also entailed shaping international policy, including taxation and trade agreements, which had far-reaching implications.
- As a towering figure in American politics, Rangel's legacy encompasses not just his ethics scandal, but also his dedication to justice, his role in policy-and-legislation, and his significant contributions to international affairs.
