May 26,2025
Representative Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) issued the following statement on the passing of former Congressman Charles B. Rangel:
“It is with a heavy heart I share news of the passing of my dear friend, a beloved leader, and stalwart of our community, Congressman Charles B. Rangel.
Through our numerous conversations and collaborations over the years, his guidance, support, and faith helped propel legislative initiatives like the Second Avenue Subway that expanded during his tenure and the Charles B. Rangel Infrastructure Workforce Initiative, which I helped establish as a lasting tribute to his legacy as a champion of creating pipelines for future generations.
Congressman Rangel was an iconic figure and a devoted patriot as a veteran of the Korean War; as a founder of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC); the Lion of Lenox Avenue for his love and loyalty to Harlem; an institution through his many endowments of service to erect namesake programs like the Charles B. Rangel International Affairs Program, the Charles B. Rangel International Affairs Fellowship, the Charles B. Rangel Infrastructure Workforce Initiative, and the Charles B. Rangel Center for Public Service.
Charlie was an inspiration and embodied the truest form of leadership in public service, steadied in his faith and faithfulness in the American people, and a giant unmatched in his leadership, compassion, and commitment to upholding the values of our nation. I will miss him dearly and am grateful for our time together, his mentorship, and most importantly, friendship we developed over the years.”
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GOVERNOR HOCHUL DIRECTS STATE FLAGS TO HALF-STAFF IN HONOR OF FORMER REPRESENTATIVE CHARLES B. RANGEL
Flags Will Be Flown at Half-Staff Across New York State Tomorrow, May 27, and on the Day of Representative Rangel’s Funeral Service
Governor Kathy Hochul today directed flags to be lowered at half-staff to honor the life and public service of Former Representative Charles B. Rangel, who passed away today at the age of 94.
“Charlie was a powerful voice in government and politics, and we remember him today for not only leading his life as a public servant of this great State but also for his dedicated service to our military in the Korean War,” Governor Hochul said. “A fierce advocate for equal opportunity and a voice for Harlem, Representative Rangel’s legacy shows us what we can accomplish as determined legislators. My thoughts are with all who loved him.”
Born in Harlem, Representative Rangel dedicated his life to public service beginning in 1970 — when he was first elected to Congress — and retiring in 2016. His 46 years in Congress led him to become the ninth-longest serving in the House, where he backed the Affordable Care Act, the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit and sponsored more than 40 pieces of legislation that became law.
Representative Rangel earned a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star for his dedicated service in the U.S. military during the Korean War.
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