The longtime congressman from New York Charles Rangel passed away at the age of 94.
According to CBS News, the first black chair of House Ways and Means and the last surviving member of the “Gang of Four” died of Monday at a hospital in New York.
The Rangel family confirmed his death in a statemnet and said, “A towering figure in American politics and a champion for justice, equity, and opportunity, Congressman Rangel dedicated over four decades of his life to public service.”
“Throughout his career, Congressman Rangel fought tirelessly for affordable housing, urban revitalization, fair tax policies, and equal opportunities for all Americans,” it added.
As per the familly, Rangel was pre-deceased by his wife, Alma. He is survived by his son, Steven Rangel, daughter Alicia Rangel Haughton, three grandsons, Howard R. Haughton, Joshua R. Haughton and Charles R. Haughton.
Born in Harlem on June 11, 1930, Rangel was a Democratic member of the House of Representatives for 46 years after unseating the legendary Adam Clayton Powell Jr. He was a Korean War veteran, the dean of the New York Congressional Delegation and a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus.
