Posted on 06/20/2016 10:18:39 AM PDT by GuavaCheesePuff
Next week, Democratic voters in Harlem and upper Manhattan will do something they havent done in a long time: vote in a congressional election that doesnt include Rep. Charles Rangel. After more than 40 years, the lion of Harlem is retiring. Without an incumbent, the race in the 13th Congressional District is more competitive than usual, though it's still taking place somewhat quietly. Traditionally low turnout even in competitive congressional races means that each vote carries extra weight. No matter who wins, Rangels replacement will mark a shift for a changing district.
A change in representation for a changing district Walk down the street in the heart of Rangels district and you'll find plenty of love for Rangel, even if for some that love has faded in light of the old mans long service and 2010 censure for ethics violations. Hes almost like a grandpa to the community, says Andre Murray, 50. Him and Al Sharpton together in this area. If you need something done, run to them. One of the best, says Tony Ledesma, 58, smiling at the memories of meetings with the congressman, who has always taken care of seniors and worked to increase housing. Rangel won Harlems seat in Congress in 1970, defeating civil rights legend Adam Clayton Powell Jr., himself engulfed in scandal. Rangel eventually became the first African-American chairman of the powerful Ways and Means Committee. Back when Harlem was far less of a site for real estate speculation, he bolstered the districts housing through low income housing credits, and worked to help improve the neighborhoods economy through creation of the Harlem Empowerment Zone in the 90s. In an era of higher crime in NYC, he also supported President Ronald Reagans war on drugs.
(Excerpt) Read more at amny.com ...
I KNOW!!! I KNOW!!!
Anthony Weiner!!! ROFL....
He looked fairly happy while he was chomping down on a still kicking zebra.
It will truly be hard to find someone to replace Rangle, there are few people who are that crooked, slimy, or obscene even in the vast swampland of the talent pool of the democrat party
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.