Charles Rangel Legacy as a Congressman, Veteran, and Champion of Justice
Charles Rangel, the iconic Harlem congressman whose political career spanned nearly five decades, has passed away at the age of 94. Known affectionately as “The Lion of Harlem,” Rangel was not only a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus but also the last surviving member of the legendary “Gang of Four,” a group of influential Black leaders who helped reshape New York politics in the latter half of the 20th century.
Rangel’s passing marks the end of an era in American public service — one defined by resilience, reform, and relentless advocacy for underserved communities.
A Historic Political Journey Rooted in Harlem of Charles Rangel
Charles Rangel first entered Congress in 1971 after defeating Rev. Adam Clayton Powell Jr., making headlines and history. He would go on to serve 23 consecutive terms, representing Harlem and parts of upper Manhattan in what is now New York’s 13th Congressional District. In 2007, he rose to national prominence as the Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, a powerful role that oversees federal taxation, tariffs, and social programs. Read more about the committee’s role here.
His legislative record was prolific. Rangel was instrumental in authoring or supporting numerous transformative laws, including:
- The Affordable Care Act (ACA) – a landmark healthcare law signed under President Obama. More on ACA from HealthCare.gov
- The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit
- The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
- The Work Opportunity Tax Credit
- The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009
- The Caribbean Basin Initiative
- The Africa Growth and Opportunity Act
- The ‘Rangel Amendment,’ which contributed to the dismantling of apartheid in South Africa
Even after retirement in 2017, Rangel never stopped working for his community. He collaborated with The City College of New York to launch the Charles B. Rangel Infrastructure Workforce Initiative, a job training and economic empowerment program focused on uplifting residents of the Bronx and surrounding areas.
A Decorated War Hero Who Served His Nation Beyond the Battlefield
Before entering politics, Charles Rangel served bravely in the Korean War, where he earned the Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his heroism. That wartime experience profoundly shaped his views on justice, equality, and the role of government in supporting those who serve.
His enduring commitment to public service made him one of the most effective legislators in U.S. congressional history, with over 40 of his sponsored bills and resolutions becoming law. You can explore many of these on Congress.gov.
A Life Rooted in Love, Harlem, and Purpose
Charles met his beloved wife, Alma, in the 1950s at Harlem’s famed Savoy Ballroom. Their love story spanned over six decades until Alma’s passing in 2023. Together, they raised two children and were grandparents to several grandchildren — a family legacy built on love, resilience, and service.
Outpouring of Tributes and National Mourning
As news of Charles Rangel’s passing spread, tributes flooded in from across the political spectrum.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams reflected on Rangel’s decades of service:
- “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.”
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer praised Rangel’s brilliance and unshakeable spirit:
- “He was brilliant, bold, funny, and fearless all at once. He left the world a much better place than when he entered it.”
Congressman Hakeem Jeffries, current House Democratic Leader, called Rangel a “transformational force of nature” and “The Lion of Lenox Avenue.”
Reverend Al Sharpton paid emotional tribute:
- “We’ve marched together, been arrested together, and painted over crack houses together… Black excellence in Harlem survived because of the work Charlie and his cohorts did.”
Former Governor David Paterson, whose father Basil Paterson was part of the “Gang of Four,” called Rangel’s passing “the loss of one of the greats.”
Charles Rangel’s Enduring Impact
More than a politician, Charles Rangel was a visionary leader who broke barriers and opened doors for generations of Black lawmakers. He shaped national policy while never forgetting his roots in Harlem. Through legislative achievements, community activism, and his infectious charisma, he left a mark that history will not soon forget.
His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the policies he shaped, and the communities he uplifted.
For more information about Charles Rangel’s legislative record and public service career:
- Charles Rangel’s profile on Congress.gov
- Congressional Black Caucus official site
- Affordable Care Act overview – HealthCare.gov
- U.S. House Committee on Ways and Means
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