Overview

• Charles Rangel’s death at age 94 on May 26, 2025, was confirmed by the City College of New York, where he served as Statesman-in-Residence.
• He represented Harlem in Congress for 23 terms from 1971 to 2017 and became the first African American to chair the House Ways and Means Committee in 2007.
• A decorated Korean War veteran, Rangel earned a Purple Heart, a Bronze Star and three battle stars for his service at Kunu-ri.
• He sponsored landmark measures including the Affordable Care Act, the national empowerment zone program and the ‘Rangel Amendment’ that targeted apartheid in South Africa.
• Despite a 2010 censure over ethics violations, Rangel remained highly respected, drawing tributes from New York officials and prompting flags to be flown at half staff.