Rangel political allies largely quiet as they weigh political fallout of ethics charges

Rangel ethics charges create headache for allies

NEW YORK — The ethics charges against New York Democrat Charlie Rangel are causing headaches for his allies.

The 40-year congressional veteran says he will fight to clear his name. But few prominent Democrats are speaking up for him.

It’s a particularly vexing situation for New York Democrats, who have benefited for years from Rangel’s campaign contributions and his advocacy for the state.

To criticize Rangel would look politically expedient and could risk the ire of the Congressional Black Caucus. But staying silent leaves them vulnerable to GOP charges that they party is not tough on ethics.

Another issue for many of New York’s top officeholders is a scheduled Aug. 11 campaign fundraiser for Rangel being hosted by Gov. David Paterson and chaired by most of the state’s Democratic party elite.