Congressman Charlie Rangel of Harlem has had nearly 40 years of service in the House of Representatives, but is now facing an ethics investigation due to tax problems that he should have been able to avoid.
Being the Chair of the House Ways and Means Committee, which deals with all tax legislation, makes things particularly awkward, and it is hurting the image of the Democrats and seems likely to contribute to the danger of the loss of many seats by the Democrats in the 2010 midterm elections for the House.
The Black Caucus is backing Rangel all the way, but frankly, this is not a good move by that caucus, because it leaves the impression that they are only in support of him because of his skin color. This is bad policy making, and no one, black or white or otherwise, should get a “free ride” simply because of that.
For the good of the party, Rangel should voluntarily step down as Chair of the Ways and Means Committee, and should he be cleared eventually of any charges by the Ethics Committee, he could be allowed to regain the chairmanship at a later date.
So, Charlie, for the good of the Democratic party and its future, you need to resign now from a leadership role on your committee!