The Empire Page

Now that Gov. Paterson has wisely decided to withdraw his candidacy for governor for 2010, it’s time for Congressman Rangel to indicate that he will retire at the end of his current term.

Decisions such as these men face are difficult because they believe themselves to be righteous representatives of their communities. They have accomplished much good, but their personal failures have rendered each ineffective.

Mr. Rangel must join his colleague Mr. Paterson in honoring those who elected him. Retiring is the only honorable decision.