Rangel In The Heights (Updated x 3)



Congressman Charles B. Rangel held court this afternoon, hosting a press conference in Washington Heights.  Perhaps coincidentally, State Senator Adriano Espaillat held a press conference 3 blocks away shortly before Rangel arrived.

Ydanis Rodriguez:

Council Member Ydanis Rodriguez, an enthusiastic supporter of Espaillat, held his own mini press conference just a few feet away from Rangel.  Here’s what happened when Rangel spotted Rodriguez:

(Update #3)  I asked Rodriguez about his confrontation with Rangel, at a campaign stop Monday evening at 116th Street/Lexington Avenue:

Update – The Prequel:

Shortly before Espaillat supporter Ydanis Rodriguez appeared, Espaillat’s campaign manager and a Rodriguez staffer listened to the press conference.  Here’s what happened when the campaign manager’s presence was pointed out to Rangel:

Update #2 – Charlie 360:

Rangel gave quite a performance to the press.  Surrounded by a large circle of his supporters and press, he spoke first to his supporters and then pivoted to face the press.  Cracking himself up repeatedly, Rangel dismissed questions about his opponent but introduced himself to Espaillat’s campaign manager, who was listening to the press conference.  Here’s the full press Q&A: