HR3590 Health Care Bill & Government Health Insurance

Rep. Charles Bernard Rangel, now on his 20th term as a Democrat in the United States House of Representatives representing the 15th District of New York, is one of the key players in the quest to pass health care reform. He was named the first African-American Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee in January 2007.

Congressman Charlie Rangel was born on June 11, 1930 in Harlem, New York. His father, Ralph Rangel Sr., was described as unemployed and an absentee father, eventually leaving the family when Charlie Rangel was six years old. He attended DeWitt Clinton High School, during which time he was sometimes driven home by the police. At age 16, he dropped out of school and worked in various jobs, among them selling shoes.

Afterwards, Rangel decided to enlist in the United States Army, serving from 1948 until 1952. He was part of the all-black 503rd field battalion in the 2nd Infantry Division during the Korean War, and received a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star with Valor for actions while in the service.

The Army, according to Rangel, was a turning point in his life. He was given an honorable discharge with the rank of staff sergeant, and went on to finish high school. He earned a bachelor’s degree from the New York University School of Commerce in 1957 and a Juris Doctor from the St. John’s University School of Law in 1960, where he enjoyed a full scholarship.

He initially went into practice as a private lawyer, then as Assistant U.S. Attorney and legal counsel. He was elected into the House of Representatives in 1971.