Another era has ended: New York City’s longtime Democratic Congress member Charlie Rangel passed away at the age of 94, City College of New York announced Monday.
“He served for 23 terms in the House of Representatives and was cited as the most effective lawmaker in Congress, leading all of his colleagues in passing legislation,” the statement said.
Rangel, who was born in Harlem on June 11, 1930, began serving as a US Representative from the neighborhood in 1971. He spent the next half century working to ensure his district’s priorities were addressed in the nation’s capital.
But Rangel’s service to his country began much earlier, with his US Army combat service (1948-1952) during the Korean War, earning a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star.
The former Congressmember, known for his warmth and blunt speech, was known for his strong support for the Jewish community and the State of Israel. He was also the first African American to chair the House Ways and Means Committee.
“Charlie Rangel spent a lifetime serving his country — first as a decorated veteran of the Korean War, then as an assemblyman, and a congressman. For nearly 50 years, he represented his community as one of our city’s greatest elected leaders,” New York City Mayor Eric Adams said in a statement.
“I am so sad to lose a dear friend and exemplary model of devotion and courage. My prayers are with his family, Harlem, and all who knew him.”
