On Monday, May 26th, Charles Rangel, a distinguished American politician and longtime representative of Harlem, passed away at the age of 94, his family announced. His career in public service spanned nearly five decades, during which he played a key role in crafting legislation aimed at benefiting urban communities and working families.
Born in Harlem in 1930, Rangel served in the Korean War, earning both a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star for valor. Following his military service, he completed his studies at New York University and St. John’s University School of Law, before beginning his career as an assistant U.S. attorney in Manhattan.
Elected to Congress in 1970 after defeating civil rights leader Adam Clayton Powell Jr., Rangel served 23 terms representing New York’s 13th Congressional District. He was a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus and made history as the first African American to chair the House Ways and Means Committee. His legislative efforts included support for affordable housing, tax credits, economic empowerment zones, trade initiatives with Africa and the Caribbean, and contributions to the Affordable Care Act.
In 2010, Rangel was censured by the House for ethics violations related to financial disclosures and the use of congressional resources. Despite this, he was re-elected twice before retiring in 2017. After leaving Congress, he served as Statesman-in-Residence at The City College of New York, where he launched the Charles B. Rangel Infrastructure Workforce Initiative to expand infrastructure-related employment opportunities in upper Manhattan and the Bronx.
Rangel’s contributions were acknowledged by political leaders. New York Governor Kathy Hochul ordered flags to be lowered in his honor. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Congressman Adriano Espaillat also paid tribute to his leadership and dedication.
He is survived by his children and grandchildren. Private funeral services are planned, followed by a public celebration of life.
