(Newser)
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Rep. Charles Rangel has fought off five challengers to prevail in his Democratic primary. The victory—likely to assure the 80-year-old of another 2 years in Congress—comes despite multiple ethics charges pending against him, the AP notes. (More Rangel news here.) Democrats, including President Obama, had urged Rangel to consider stepping aside.
“This isn’t a win for Charlie Rangel, this is our community’s win. This is all of you that spoke,’’ the 40-year House veteran told supporters. “My heart is beating so fast because of the terrible accusations and allegations,’’ he said. “It beats fast because of my pride in coming from a community and my friends and voters say hey, we’ll make the decision.’’ Rangel is awaiting trial by fellow lawmakers for 13 alleged violations of House rules.
