Despite last night’s vow that he wouldn’t temporarily step aside from his role as chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, this morning Charlie Rangel announced that he would do so. He told reporters: “In order to avoid my colleagues having to defend me during their elections, I have this morning sent a letter to Speaker [Nancy] Pelosi asking her to grant me a leave of absence until such time as the ethics committee completes its work.” Considering it was reported last night that Pelosi ordered him to step aside in a “testy” meeting last night, we’re guessing it didn’t take her long to “grant” him her permission.
Rangel Gives Up Committee Gavel — For Now [Roll Call]
