Former Congressman Charles Rangel, a decorated war hero and towering Democratic figure who represented Harlem for nearly half a century, has passed away at age 94. The longtime lawmaker leaves behind a legacy marked by historic firsts, legislative influence, and ethical controversy.

“Lion of Lenox Avenue” Leaves a Lasting Mark

Charles Rangel died on May 26, 2025, after a career that spanned 46 years in Congress. A founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus, Rangel broke barriers in 2007 by becoming the first Black chairman of the powerful House Ways and Means Committee. Known for his fiery wit and political savvy, Rangel steered key tax and economic policy while never losing touch with his Harlem roots.

Throughout his tenure, Rangel championed civil rights, economic justice, and urban revitalization. He authored legislation creating Empowerment Zones to boost investment in low-income areas and played a central role in expanding the Earned Income Tax Credit. Even as Washington’s landscape shifted, Rangel remained a sharp voice for the working class and a fixture in Democratic policymaking.

From Battlefield Hero to Political Trailblazer

Before entering politics, Rangel served in the Korean War, where he earned a Purple Heart and Bronze Star with Valor. His heroism in rescuing fellow soldiers at the Battle of Kunu-ri became a cornerstone of his public image. After the war, he studied law and eventually replaced the legendary Adam Clayton Powell Jr. in Congress in 1971.

Charles Rangel, the longtime Harlem congressman and influential Democratic lawmaker, has died at the age of 94, with many dignitaries paying tribute on Monday. https://t.co/HwMjPwh0nu

— Spectrum News 1 BUF (@SPECNews1BUF) May 26, 2025

That military service informed his passionate, and at times controversial, stance on U.S. foreign policy. Rangel once pushed to reinstate the military draft during the Iraq War, arguing that war’s burdens should not fall solely on the poor. That conviction—shared sacrifice for the nation—defined much of his political philosophy.

Ethics Scandal Tarnishes a Storied Career

Despite his legislative accomplishments, Rangel’s career was marred by an ethics scandal. In 2010, the House formally censured him for 11 violations, including failing to pay taxes on a Dominican Republic villa and using congressional resources to raise funds for a public service center bearing his name.

He was 94 years old. Served for 46 years. https://t.co/VNrszqhlw1

— MichelleCharlesworth (@mcharlesworth7) May 26, 2025

Though the censure was humiliating, Rangel weathered the storm, winning two more elections and retiring in 2017. His Harlem base stood by him, reflecting decades of loyalty and service. In retirement, he served as statesman-in-residence at City College of New York, mentoring future leaders and leaving behind the Charles B. Rangel Center for Public Service as his final civic contribution.

Charles Rangel’s life was anything but ordinary—a war hero, historic lawmaker, master legislator, and complicated figure whose impact on American politics will be debated for years to come.

Sources:

Former New York Rep. Charles Rangel, who spent 4 decades in Congress, dies at 94 – ABC News

Former Congressman Charlie Rangel dies at 94