Democrats are increasingly nervous that Rep. Charlie Rangel’s ethics investigation will bleed over into the November elections as Rangel negotiates behind the scenes for a last-minute settlement.
The Associated Press is reporting that Rangel (D-NY) former chairman of the tax-writing Ways and Means Committee, is trying to settle his case in advance of Thursday’s open hearing. That would mean he would have to agree he committed some ethical misconduct, the AP reported with citations to “people familiar with the situation.”
This morning, House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer said it was up to Rangel to make a decision on what comes next.
“Mr. Rangel has to do what Mr. Rangel believes is appropriate and proper,” said Hoyer (D-MD).
“The ethics process is working,” Hoyer said three times during his 25-minute weekly briefing with reporters today. He repeatedly noted that Rangel asked for the investigation.
Pennsylvania Gov. Ed Rendell was far more blunt in an appearance this morning on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe.” Rendell (D) said “it would help” if Rangel stepped down from his seat entirely.
“Charlie has to understand that a long drawn out procedure will make a difficult election even more difficult for Democrats,” Rendell said.
