Rep. Charlie Rangel, who has represented his New York City district in the House of Representatives for over four decades, has announced that he will run for a 23rd term next year.
Rangel, a Democrat, made his announcement in a New York Daily News opinion piece, claiming that he is “fired up” to continue serving after recently speaking with his constituents. He also said that he believes President Barack Obama needs more allies in the House and that he has been a strong supporter of his policies.
“I have heard the skeptics and the chattering classes wondering whether I remain committed to representing our congressional district which I have passionately served for more than 40 years,” Rangel wrote. “After reflection and speaking with constituents in Upper Manhattan and the Bronx I proudly represent, I am all the more fired up about fighting to advance the unfinished business under the most exciting presidency in my lifetime.”
In his essay, Rangel, 83, did admit that he doesn’t have a perfect record. As USA Today notes, he was embroiled in an ethics scandal in 2010 and stepped down from leading the powerful House Ways and Means Committee. He was also not an immediate supporter of Obama and instead picked Hillary Rodham Clinton to support in 2008.
“I still have unfinished business. Charlie Rangel is still fired up,” Rangel concluded his essay. “That is why I am running for my 23rd term in office.”
While Rangel will run again, CNN notes that three other long-time Congressmen announced their retirement this week. They are Rep. Frank Wolf from Virginia, Rep. Tom Latham of Iowa and Rep. Jim Matheson of Utah.
image: Wikimedia Commons
