(Washington, DC) -- New York Democratic Congressman Charles Rangel faces 13 charges in a House ethics investigation. After a roughly two year probe, the charges are related to discrepancies over taxes, fundraising and financial disclosure. California Democrat Zoe Lofgren chaired a special meeting of a House ethics panel.
Rangel also faces allegations of misusing some rent-controlled apartments and House parking privileges. Unless Rangel agrees to a settlement deal, a special trial will be held in the fall. Rangel chose not to make a statement to the panel. Rangel's congressional career has spanned four decades. He recently stepped down as chairman of the powerful House Ways and Means Committee. The 80-year old Rangel has denied wrongdoing and is running for re-election.
Texas Democrat Gene Green talked about the ethics subcommittee's case against Rangel.
Another member of the ethics panel, Texas Republican Congressman Michael McCaul, said a House trial must be fair, open and non-partisan.
McCaul expressed doubts about a possible settlement deal with Rangel.
