Another Poster Child For Term Limits

July 11, 2008 – 9:40 am

Mr. Rangel, who has a net worth of $566,000 to $1.2 million, according to Congressional disclosure records, paid a total rent of $3,894 monthly in 2007 for the four apartments at Lenox Terrace, a 1,700-unit luxury development of six towers, with doormen, that is described in real estate publications as Harlem’s most prestigious address. The current market-rate rent for similar apartments in Mr. Rangel’s building would total $7,465 to $8,125 a month…Mr. Rangel, 78, declined to answer questions during a telephone interview, saying that his housing was a private matter that did not affect his representation of his constituents. “Why should I help you embarrass me?” he said, before abruptly hanging up.

No Charlie. You did this to yourself, thereby embarassing yourself. The only thing The New York Times did wrong was wait far too long to provide this enlightening information to its readers and your constituents. Charlie Rangel is just another politician that should have been forced into retirement, via congressional term limits, a long time ago. While his war record is admirable, his policies (bringing back the draft) and attitude are not needed in the United States House of Representatives. He should try paying full price for his residence(s) just like the rest of us.