The Manhattan skyline at sunset, representing the impactful legacy of political figures.
Charles B. Rangel, a prominent figure in New York politics and a long-serving congressman, has passed away at the age of 94. Known for being the first African American chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, he dedicated his life to public service, advocating for social justice and economic initiatives that greatly impacted Harlem. His legacy includes a commitment to equity and opportunity for the underprivileged. Tributes are pouring in, underscoring the influence he had on New York politics and the community he served.
New York has lost a true legend. Charles B. Rangel, who served as a congressman for nearly half a century and was the first African American chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, has died at the age of 94. Rangel passed away on May 26, 2025, in a Manhattan hospital. The City College of New York, where he held the title of statesman-in-residence, confirmed his death, although the cause has yet to be disclosed.
Born in Harlem on June 11, 1930, Rangel’s journey to becoming a prominent political figure was anything but conventional. The son of a **Puerto Rican father** and an **African American mother**, his early life was challenging. A high school dropout, he later turned his life around by earning a bachelor’s degree from New York University and a law degree from St. John’s University. Rangel’s career took off when he became a U.S. attorney in 1961. By 1970, he had made a name for himself in politics, defeating the well-known Adam Clayton Powell Jr. to assume office in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Rangel’s influence spanned numerous crucial pieces of legislation throughout his long career. As a founding member of the **Congressional Black Caucus** and a chairman in 1974, he championed social justice, fought for welfare programs, and advocated for higher taxes on wealthier individuals. His notable opposition to the **2003 invasion of Iraq** reflected his commitment to peaceful conflict resolution. Rangel’s economic initiatives also significantly impacted his home district, most notably through his work on the **Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone**, which aimed to revitalize Harlem’s economy.
No political life is without its challenges, and Rangel faced his share later in his career. Starting in 2008, he underwent significant ethical scrutiny, culminating in a censure by the House in 2010 for multiple violations related to **personal finances and fundraising activities**. Despite these controversies, Rangel continued to earn the public’s support and managed to get re-elected twice before ultimately deciding not to seek a **24th term** in 2016, in part due to a shifting demographic in his district, which had become predominantly Latino. His successor, **Adriano Espaillat**, went on to become the first Dominican American member of Congress.
Rangel’s career was not only shaped by his significant contributions to legislation but also by his warm personality and distinctive gravelly voice. He was known for his quick wit and humor, which made him a memorable figure not just in Congress but throughout the country. Many saw him as a champion for **justice, equity, and opportunity**, especially for the underprivileged, which earned him respect from peers and constituents alike.
After a momentous career, Rangel has left behind a strong legacy and a family that includes two children, **Steven Rangel and Alicia Haughton**, as well as three grandsons. Fellow lawmakers and community leaders are now paying tribute to the man who dedicated his life to public service and made an indelible mark on **New York politics** and Harlem’s development.
As tributes pour in, it’s clear that Charles Rangel’s influence will be felt for years to come. His storied life reminds us of the power of perseverance and the importance of fighting for what you believe in. Rest in peace, Congressman Rangel; your legacy will never be forgotten.
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