Congressman Charles B. Rangel, a decorated war hero, civil rights pioneer, and one of the most influential lawmakers in American history, died on Memorial Day at the age of 94. The former Harlem congressman served 46 groundbreaking years in the U.S. House of Representatives, leaving behind a legacy of legislative mastery, social justice advocacy, and unwavering service to his community and country.

The City College of New York, where Rangel served as Statesman-in-Residence following his retirement, confirmed his death Monday morning, calling him a “war hero, history-making Congressman and longtime friend.” His passing marks the end of an era—not only was he a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus, but he was also the last surviving member of New York’s legendary political “Gang of Four.”

From Harlem Streets to the Halls of Congress

Born and raised in Harlem, Rangel’s story is quintessentially American. A high school dropout, he went on to become a decorated Korean War veteran, earning a Purple Heart and Bronze Star for Valor. Thanks to the GI Bill, he earned a bachelor’s degree from New York University and a law degree from St. John’s University, eventually serving as an assistant U.S. Attorney before entering politics.

In 1970, Rangel was elected to Congress after defeating the legendary Rev. Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. He would go on to serve 23 terms representing what is now New York’s 13th Congressional District, making history in 2007 as the first African American to chair the powerful House Ways and Means Committee.

A Legislative Legacy of Impact and Inclusion

Recognized as one of the most effective lawmakers in U.S. history, Rangel led his colleagues in passing legislation. He was the primary sponsor of President Obama’s Affordable Care Act, and throughout his tenure, he authored or co-sponsored over 40 bills and resolutions that became law.

His legislative victories reflect a deep commitment to equity, opportunity, and economic revitalization. Key accomplishments include:

• National Empowerment Zone Program

• Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

• Low-Income Housing Tax Credit

• American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009

• Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI)

• African Growth and Opportunity Act

• The “Rangel Amendment”, which played a pivotal role in dismantling apartheid by denying tax benefits to U.S. companies investing in South Africa.

Even after his retirement in 2017, Rangel remained a force for progress. In 2022, he launched the Charles B. Rangel Infrastructure Workforce Initiative (RIWI) at City College, aiming to create infrastructure jobs for underrepresented communities in Upper Manhattan and the Bronx.

More Than a Politician: A Husband, Father, and Believer in the American Dream

Rangel met his late wife, Alma, on the dance floor of Harlem’s legendary Savoy Ballroom in the 1950s. The couple, who were both 94 at the time of her passing in October, shared a deep bond, two children, and several grandchildren.

Despite personal and political challenges, Rangel remained committed to truth, service, and reform. He believed that America’s diversity was one of its greatest strengths and championed international diplomacy, criminal justice reform, and access to education for marginalized communities.

A Lasting Example of Public Service

From Harlem to Capitol Hill, Charles B. Rangel never stopped fighting for the people. Whether revitalizing urban neighborhoods, advocatingfor trade with developing nations, or championing policies for working families, Rangel defined what it means to serve with courage, intellect, and heart.

His journey, from a teenage soldier in Korea to one of the most powerful figures in American politics, is a testament to resilience, vision, and the enduring power of public service.

No funeral arrangements have been announced yet.

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