Cox: Rangel's "Unlucky 13" - Disgraced Congressman Must be Held Accountable

Albany, New York . . . July 29, 2010 – The following is a statement from State Republican Party Chairman Ed Cox regarding the 13 "very serious" ethics charges levied by the House Subcommittee on Official Conduct against disgraced New York Congressman Charlie Rangel. The charges are related to allegations that Rangel inappropriately solicited donations for the Charles B. Rangel Center for Public Service at City College of New York, left errors and omissions on his financial disclosure forms, failed to report and pay taxes on rental income for a beach villa, and inappropriately allowed his campaign committees to use a rent subsidized apartment:

“For too long, Charlie Rangel has been allowed to wield considerable power in the U.S. House of Representatives, while engaging in the sort of corruption that would lead to a criminal investigation being initiated against any ordinary citizen facing similar charges.  At the very least, the IRS should be investigating the allegations of tax fraud against Mr. Rangel, and treat him just like every other taxpayer whose taxes have been similarly questioned.  Whether he cuts a deal with his colleagues on the House Ethics Committee or not, Rangel’s tax fraud allegations deserve to be investigated further.   

“Adding to the deplorable nature of Congressman Rangel’s conduct is the fact Rangel served as Chairman of the powerful House Ways and Means Committee, at the top of the tax and fiscal policy pyramid in Washington while committing his alleged tax fraud.   Too many New Yorkers’ interests are at the mercy of corrupt, self-interested Democrat leaders in both Albany and Washington, and the 13 ethics charges levied against Congressman Rangel are testament to the need for a change in leadership in both the State and Federal Government. 

“Across New York, Republican candidates are standing up for fiscally and morally responsible governance, in stark contrast to the current crop of Democrat leaders who are currently making a mockery of our government.”

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