Charles B. Rangel, the influential former congressman who dedicated nearly half a century to representing Harlem on Capitol Hill, has passed away at the age of 94. His death was confirmed by Michelle Stent, a spokesperson from The City College of New York, who stated that Rangel died in the hospital on Monday.
A Towering Legacy of Service and Impact
Rangel’s political journey is woven deeply into the fabric of Harlem’s identity. For more than 40 years, he stood as a powerful advocate for civil rights, social justice, and economic opportunity—fighting tirelessly for his constituents and shaping national policy from the halls of Congress.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer took to X (formerly Twitter) to pay his respects, calling Rangel “a great man, a great friend, and someone who never stopped fighting for his constituents and the best of America.”
From Humble Beginnings to Congressional Leadership
Born and raised in Harlem, Rangel’s early life was marked by adversity. His father, Ralph Rangel, was largely absent, leaving his mother, Blanche Mary Wharton, to support the family as a domestic worker and factory seamstress in Manhattan’s Garment District.
Though a promising student, Rangel dropped out of high school during his junior year. He went on to serve in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, where he earned both the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star for his courage under fire.
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After his honorable discharge, Rangel pursued higher education under the G.I. Bill. He graduated from New York University and later earned a law degree from St. John’s University Law School.
A Force in New York and National Politics
Rangel’s political career began in the New York State Assembly, where he quickly established himself as a voice for change. He also served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney before launching a historic congressional campaign.
In 1970, Rangel achieved a major political upset by defeating Rev. Adam Clayton Powell Jr., a towering figure in Harlem politics. From that point on, he became a fixture in Washington, serving Harlem’s 13th District until his retirement in 2017.
A founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus, Rangel became the dean of New York’s congressional delegation and made history in 2007 when he became the first Black chairman of the powerful House Ways and Means Committee.
A Legacy That Extended Beyond Politics
After stepping down from Congress, Rangel continued to give back to the community that raised him. He took on the role of Statesman-in-Residence at The City College of New York, mentoring young leaders and guiding policy initiatives.
In 2022, he founded the Charles B. Rangel Infrastructure Workforce Initiative (RIWI) to help bring modern infrastructure job opportunities to residents of Upper Manhattan and the Bronx.
A proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, Rangel also served on the organization’s World Policy Council, further solidifying his influence both domestically and globally.
The Last of the Harlem Clubhouse
Rangel was the final surviving member of the legendary “Gang of Four,” also known as the Harlem Clubhouse—a group of political powerhouses that included former Mayor David Dinkins, Basil Paterson, and Percy Sutton. Together, they redefined Black political leadership in New York City and laid the groundwork for future generations.
A Final Farewell
Rangel’s passing marks the end of an era for Harlem and the broader African American political community. His contributions spanned the battlefield, the courtroom, and the congressional floor, always rooted in the unwavering belief that public service is a noble calling.
We at The PopRadar extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and admirers of Congressman Charles Rangel. His voice, vision, and legacy will live on in the streets of Harlem and the hearts of millions.
