Trailblazing congressman Charlie Rangel dies at 94

Former U.S. Rep. Charles Rangel, D-N.Y., died on Monday in a New York hospital at the age of 94. The Harlem native served 46 years in the U.S. House of Representatives and made history as the first black chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee. He also served as a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus. The career politician attended New York University and the St. John’s University School of Law after serving in the Korean War. Rangel, dubbed “The Lion of Lenox Avenue,” championed issues like affordable housing and fair tax policies. He also opposed interventionist military actions such as the 2003 war in Iraq, and he pushed back on welfare reform in 1996.

What do colleagues remember about Rangel? Former President Bill Clinton released a statement on Monday mourning Rangel, describing him as a tireless champion of Harlem and a fighter for equality everywhere. He was a master of policy and politics, and he used those skills to improve people's lives with legislation, according to Clinton. Former President Joe Biden also released a statement saying Rangel dedicated his life to public service and made important strides for his constituents.

Civil Rights activist Al Sharpton remembered first meeting Rangel as a teenager, describing him as a constant presence in his life. Rangel was an unshakable force in American politics and a giant that truly earned his place in history, Sharpton said. A number of Democratic politicians also released similar statements honoring his passing, including House Minority Leader Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, Rep. Maxine Waters of California, and Rep. Frank Pallone of New Jersey.

Rangel was preceded in death by his wife, Alma, and is survived by his children, Steven and Alicia, along with multiple grandchildren. The Rangel family planned to hold a private funeral followed by a public celebration of life.