Charles Rangel’s request to delay his trial in order to defend his 13 charges of financial and fundraising misconduct was denied Monday.
Prosecutor and Chief House ethics counsel Blake Chisam, showed video of Rangel’s admission of violating rules; misusing official stationery to solicit private donations.
Rangel was not in the room when the case began. Before the case was presented, Rangel argued he’s in a “Catch-22” through his attempts to defend himself. Therefore, he asked for a delay in his trial so that he can get a lawyer he can afford without violating House ethics rules.
“All I’m asking for is time to get counsel,” said Rangel. “I have lawyers in New York and Washington who’ve offered to come and give free counsel … but then it would be violation of the law. … So while you tell me, I can hire anybody, get anybody, not have a lawyer, time does not permit this matter to be concluded before the end of this session … and that’s the nuts and bolts of what we’re talking about.”
If the panel finds that Rangel broke the rules, it could recommend the House vote to condemn his conduct.
“We recognize that Mr. Rangel has said he will not participate, as is his right,” said committee Chairwoman Zoe Lofgren. “No conclusion of the facts of the matter can be drawn by Mr. Rangel’s decision to refuse to participate in this hearing.”
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