Crowley backs Rangel for re-election

[hrmjustin]

Azi Paybarah

Rep. Joe Crowley has endorsed Rep. Charlie Rangel for re-election, and will host a fund-raiser for him in Queens this Thursday, according to an email sent by Rangel’s campaign.

The fund-raiser also includes representatives Grace Meng and Gregory Meeks, and former governor David Paterson.

Endorsements from colleagues aren't usually a surprise, but Crowley's support for Rangel is particularly interesting.

The endorsement puts Crowley against a few leading Hispanic lawmakers who have endorsed Rangel's main opponent, State Senator Adriano Espaillat, who nearly unseated the longtime congressman in 2012. Espaillat has been endorsed by City Council Melissa Mark-Viverito, and Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. will reportedly endorse him soon too. Both endorsed Rangel in 2012.

http://www.capitalnewyork.com/article/city-hall/2014/03/8542504/crowley-backs-rangel-re-election?top-featured-3

[hrmjustin]

1. Espaillat Brings Beefed-Up Campaign Machine to Second Rangel Fight

http://politicker.com/2014/03/espaillat-brings-beefed-up-campaign-machine-to-second-rangel-fight/