Who was Charlie Rangel? Former Congressman passes away at 94

Charlie Rangel, full name Charles Bernard Rangel, was an American politician who served as the U.S. representative for district in New York City for forty-six years– from January 3, 1971, to January 3, 2017. He was a member of the Democratic Party and the second-longest-serving incumbent member of the House of Representatives.

During his political career, Rangel garnered several achievements and won numerous awards, including the 1986 William L. Dawson Award from the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, the 2005 Jackie Robinson Foundation's Lifetime Achievement Award, and the 2006 Distinguished Service Award from the Washington International Trade Association.

The renowned politician received honorary degrees from Suffolk University Law School, Hofstra University, Syracuse University, and Bard College. In 2006, Charlie Rangel was awarded a Presidential Medal from Baruch College.

Before his time as the representative of New York Districts, Rangel served in the U.S. Military during the Korean War, earning a Purple Heart and Bronze Star to commemorate his service to the U.S. Army.

The “Lion of Lenox Avenue” served as the Dean of New York's congressional delegation and later went on to become the first African American chair of the House Ways and Means Committee, not long after, he co-founded the Congressional Black Caucus.

Charlie Rangel married Alma Carter on July 26, 1964. He is survived by two children- Alicia and Stephen- and three grandsons.

More details on Charlie Rangel’s passing

Charlie Rangel passed away on May 26, 2025, at 94. His death was announced by the City College of New York on Monday via a statement:

“He served for 23 terms in the House of Representatives and was cited as the most effective lawmaker in Congress, leading all of his colleagues in passing legislation.”

Following the announcement, several political figures have expressed their condolences.

“Charlie Rangel was a mentor and a friend. He taught me that leadership is about lifting others up and in the face of injustice, you don’t flinch, you don’t fold—you fight. He was a giant in every sense. And though he’s gone, his spirit will echo for generations to come,” New York politician, Andrew Cuomo wrote on X.

Read more: Peter David, legendary comic book writer behind The Incredible Hulk and X-Factor, dies at 68

“Rep. Charlie Rangel was a phenomenal patriot, hero, statesman, leader, trailblazer, change agent & champion for justice. The Lion of Lenox Ave was a transformational force of nature. Harlem, NYC & America are better today because of his service. May he forever rest in power,” Hakeem Jeffries, Brooklyn Congressman and Democrats member tweeted

“I am saddened to learn of the passing of Congressman Charlie Rangel. A founding member of the @TheBlackCaucus. A fearless fighter for Harlem. A decorated veteran who never stopped serving the people. He paved the way for so many of us—and we’ll keep pushing, louder and bolder, because of the doors he opened,” Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett shared on X.

Read more: Who is Anna Grace Phelan? TikToker dies at 19

At the time of writing this article, the cause of death has not been revealed.

×

Was this article helpful?

Thank You for feedback