Charles Rangel, Longtime Congressman and Black Caucus Co-Founder, Dies at 94
- The New York Editorial Desk - Arif
- May 26
- 3 min read
Tone & Political Bias: Moderately Left-Leaning
Why: The article features praise from Democratic figures, focuses on racial justice and progressive policies, and highlights support for legislation tied to Democratic leadership, such as the Affordable Care Act.
Rangel’s Death Confirmed at Age 94
Charlie Rangel, a former Democratic congressman from Harlem, New York, has died at the age of 94. The City College of New York (CCNY) confirmed his passing on Monday, calling him a war hero and “history-making Congressman.”
Rangel served in the U.S. House of Representatives for 46 years, making him one of the longest-serving members of Congress. He retired in 2017.
From Harlem to the House of Representatives
Rangel was first elected to Congress in 1971, after defeating Rev. Adam Clayton Powell Jr. in the Democratic primary. He represented New York’s 13th Congressional District, centered in Harlem, for 23 consecutive terms.
He was a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus and remained active in legislative efforts around civil rights, economic justice, and foreign policy.
Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee
In 2007, Rangel became chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, the tax-writing body of the House. His leadership placed him at the center of economic and healthcare legislation.
He played a key role in shaping major policies under President Barack Obama, particularly the Affordable Care Act (ACA). He was the bill’s primary sponsor in the House.
Legislative Legacy
Rangel sponsored 40 bills and resolutions that became law. According to CCNY, he was recognized as one of the most effective lawmakers during his time in Congress.
His major legislative accomplishments included:
The Affordable Care Act (ACA)
The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit
The Work Opportunity Tax Credit
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009
The Empowerment Zone program
The Caribbean Basin Initiative
The Africa Growth and Opportunity Act
The Rangel Amendment, which contributed to the end of apartheid in South Africa
Member of the “Gang of Four”
Rangel was the last surviving member of Harlem’s influential political group known as the “Gang of Four.” The group included former Mayor David Dinkins, former Manhattan Borough President Percy Sutton, and Basil Paterson, father of former Governor David Paterson.
Gov. Paterson recalled: “I grew up listening to him, my father, Percy Sutto, and David Dinkins establish plans and follow them through to completion to enrich Harlem and our great state.”
Early Life and Military Service
Rangel served in the Korean War and received the Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his service. After returning from war, he attended New York University and earned a law degree from St. John’s University.
Tributes From Public Officials
New York Mayor Eric Adams praised Rangel’s service, calling him “a great hero” and “a true American.”
Rep. Hakeem Jeffries referred to Rangel as a “transformational force of nature” and said Harlem, New York City, and the nation are “better today because of his service.” Civil rights activist Rev. Al Sharpton remembered him as a “lion of Harlem,” noting their joint activism over the years, including protests and community initiatives.
Known for Advocacy and Accessibility
Rangel was deeply involved with his constituents and was often referred to as one of the most accessible lawmakers. Despite political controversies later in his career, he retained strong support in Harlem until his retirement.
Throughout his life, Rangel was seen as a key figure in promoting racial justice and economic opportunity for underserved communities.
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