Charles Rangel, the longtime congressman who represented Harlem and became a pioneering figure in American politics, died on Monday, May 26th, at the age of 94. His family announced his passing on Memorial Day. Rangel’s political career spanned nearly five decades, during which he shaped legislation and championed causes benefiting urban communities and working families.
Born and raised in Harlem in 1930, Rangel served in the Korean War, earning a Purple Heart and Bronze Star for valor after leading his unit to safety from a Chinese encirclement. Following his military service, he completed his education 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, Rangel defeated civil rights leader Adam Clayton Powell Jr. and went on to serve 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 powerful House Ways and Means Committee. His tenure was marked by the sponsorship and passage of numerous significant bills, including legislation that supported affordable housing, tax credits, economic empowerment zones, and trade initiatives benefiting Africa and the Caribbean. Notably, he played a key role in advancing the Affordable Care Act.
Throughout his career, Rangel built a reputation for his political skill and dedication to Harlem. He remained deeply connected to the community, even as demographic shifts altered the district’s makeup. In 2010, he was censured by the House for multiple ethics violations related to financial disclosures and use of congressional resources. Despite the censure, his constituents re-elected him twice before he retired in 2017.
After leaving Congress, Rangel continued his commitment to public service as Statesman-in-Residence at The City College of New York. There, he launched the Charles B. Rangel Infrastructure Workforce Initiative, which aims to expand infrastructure-related employment opportunities in upper Manhattan and the Bronx.
Political leaders paid tribute to Rangel’s enduring legacy. New York Governor Kathy Hochul ordered state flags lowered in his honor, emphasizing his role as a fierce advocate for equal opportunity. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries described him as a leader whose life of public service was “second to none.” At the same time, Congressman Adriano Espaillat, who succeeded Rangel, called him an unmatched figure in leadership and compassion.
He is survived by his children and grandchildren. Private services are planned, with a public celebration of life to follow.
