House ethics committee votes for censure of N.Y. Democrat
[cnn-photo-caption image=http://i.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2010/POLITICS/11/18/rangel.ethics.hearing/t1larg.rangel.hearing.defense.jpg caption="Rep. Charlie Rangel defends himself at Thursday's House ethics committee hearing." width=300 height=169]
CNN Wire Staff
Washington (CNN) - Washington (CNN) - The House ethics committee voted 9-1 on Thursday to censure Rep. Charles Rangel, D-New York, in response to multiple rules violations committed by the 20-term congressman.
Zoe Lofgren, a California Democrat and the committee's co-chairwoman, announced the recommendation around 6 p.m. Thursday, after a day of sometimes charged and emotional comments regarding how to penalize Rangel. She said that, in addition to the censure, Rangel would have to pay restitution for any unpaid taxes and report back to the committee.
Rangel's office refused to comment after the announcement, beyond saying in a statement, "the final decision on sanctions for violations of the House rules will be made by the full House of Representatives."
On Tuesday, an ethics subcommittee found "clear and convincing" evidence of Rangel's guilt on 11 counts, including failing to pay taxes on a home in the Dominican Republic, misuse of a rent-controlled apartment for political purposes, and improper use of his office to raise funds for a public policy center named for him.
The 80-year-old Rangel, re-elected earlier this month, was cleared of a charge relating to an alleged violation of the House gift ban. He had previously been forced to step down as head of the Ways and Means Committee because of the allegations against him.
Speaking earlier Thursday to the committee's five Democrats and five Republicans, Rangel pleaded for "a drop of fairness and mercy," in part out of recognition of his lengthy public service.
Updated: 7:34 p.m.
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Filed under: 360° Radar |
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This is the kind of thing that has enraged me as a tax payer. If I were guilty of the things this congressman has done, for who knows how long, I would be indicted with multiple fines, if not placed in jail or prison. My wages would be garnished, and my ability to borrow any kind of money would be wiped out. This man is above the regular tax payer, because HE is making the rules.... and not following his own rules. As a tax payer that enrages me that he would not receive at the very least what I would if I'd have committed the same crimes. When my wages are garnished it can cause me to lose my job. As a tax payer, I am tired of anyone in an elected position breaking the laws of the land, and keeping their jobs for 40+ years. It is time for change... not the same thing. Who cares if others have gotten away with it... its time to stop it. NOW. The tax payers want accountability in every aspect of the jobs of the people who are paid by the tax payer. I want him fired, and I'm one of his bosses. Thanks Kathy
Wow..... so let me get this straight. You cheat on your taxes, misuse the mail and letterhead of your office, have a rent controlled apartment as a Congressman and you get to keep your job. This is ethical ?