OPINION:
Never in the history of the republic have so many Americans been insulted by so few, namely elected members of the House. The day that shall live in infamy is Dec. 2, 2010.
Moments after Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi censured Rep. Charles B. Rangel, New York Democrat, on the floor of the House, Mr. Rangel addressed the House and said, “I know in my heart that I’m not going to be judged by this Congress, but I am going be judged by my life, my activities and my contributions to society.” Mr. Rangel went on to say, “at no time has it ever entered my mind to enrich myself. …”
I guess Mr. Rangel did not enrich himself with the taxes he did not pay, since the tax money was given to charities as part of the contributions to the society of which Mr. Rangel spoke. The infamy was not that he showed no respect to the body in which he has served for 40 years, but that some in the chamber applauded after Mr. Rangel essentially told the House that its censure is of no significance.
STEVE A. BROWN
Springfield, Va.
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