Charles Rangel, Last ‘Gang of Four’ Member and Former U.S. Congressman, Dies at 94
TL/DR –
Charles Rangel, a veteran Democratic member of the House of Representatives from New York City and the last surviving member of the “Gang of Four”, has passed away at the age of 94. Rangel was a Korean War veteran, a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus, and the first Black chair of the House’s influential Ways and Means Committee. He faced several ethics violations allegations in 2008 which resulted in his censure in 2010, yet he was reelected for two more terms before retiring in 2017.
Charles Rangel, Renowned US Congressman, Dies at 94
Charles Rangel, the esteemed U.S. congressman from New York City and last member of the “Gang of Four,” has passed away at the age of 94. Born in Harlem, Rangel served as a Democratic member of the House of Representatives for 46 years, was a respected Korean War veteran, and this founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus.
“Congressman Rangel, a towering figure in American politics, advocated for justice, equity, and opportunity. He devoted over four decades to public service, fighting tirelessly for affordable housing, urban revitalization, fair tax policies, and equal opportunities for all Americans,” the Rangel family stated in the death announcement.
The Last ‘Gang of Four’ Member
Affectionately known as “The Lion of Lenox Avenue,” Rangel was part of Harlem’s “Gang of Four” coalition. This pioneering group challenged race and class barriers, paving the way for others. Rangel became the first Black chair of the House’s influential Ways and Means Committee and played a key role in the creation of the Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone Development Corporation, significantly altering Harlem’s economic landscape.
“The great Charlie Rangel, whose life of public service is unparalleled, will never be replicated,” stated House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. “Whether in the U.S. Army, the federal courtroom, Congress, or the streets of Harlem, Congressman Rangel’s contributions stand second to none.”
Before his election to Congress in 1970, Rangel displayed tremendous bravery during the Battle of Konu-ri, leading a group of soldiers out of a deadly Chinese army encirclement, for which he earned a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star.
Chuck Schumer Remembers Rangel
Senate Minority leader Chuck Schumer described Rangel as “brilliant, bold, funny, fearless,” and noted Rangel’s relentless fight for his Harlem constituents.
Congressman Adriano Espaillat, who succeeded Rangel in 2017, referred to him as an inspirational figure who embodied leadership in public service.
In 2008, Rangel faced ethics violations about tax laws and was accused of using public resources and congressional letterhead to solicit donations for the Rangel Center at City College. He was censured in 2010 but still won two more terms.
Survived by his son, Steven Rangel, daughter Alicia Rangel Haughton, and three grandsons, Rangel leaves a legacy of service and dedication to the American people.
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