Looking at What Reps are Riding 'Round in

A Mercury Mariner hybrid SUV (leased by Rep. McNulty), a Cadillac DeVille (Rangel's ride), and a Lexus LS 460 (what Rep. Meeks leases)

Representative Charles Rangel is proud of his leased-through-Congress 2004 Cadillac DeVille. And he even offers rides to constituents, so they can discuss issues. Rangel told the NY Times, "I want them to feel that they are somebody and their congressman is somebody. And when they say, ‘This is nice,’ it feels good.” And taxpayers should feel a little ownership over the car (which is apparently so roomy Rangel has a desk in it)--taxpayers are footing the $777.54/month lease (not to mention gas).

Eleven other representatives from the NY and NJ area lease cars, and the Times has put together a chart of their cars' makes, mileage and lease costs. Rep. Gregory Meeks has a 2007 Lexus LS 460 ($998/month) while Rep. Anthony Weiner leases a 2008 Chevy Impala ($208/month). Rep. Louise Slaughter got one after her district was redrawn, but Rep. Peter King stopped leasing a car because "With the issues that people can raise against you, I just figured it didn’t make sense.”

And speaking of rides, Rep. Vito Fosella was arrested for a DWI in D.C. An advisement hearing is scheduled in Alexandria, VA for May 12.

Contact the author of this article or email tips@gothamist.com with further questions, comments or tips.

By Jen Chung in News on May 1, 2008 3:34 PM

Comments [rss]

MarygraceNYC

In this ever turning, so-called "Green City", why not have them ride around in Hybrid cars? Would this not benefit the great people of this city and set a good example as well? Mayor Bloomberg please take note.

FrankMartin

Do as I say not as I do.

F-king Pigs!

JenChungsBaby

You got those pics in the wrong order of the caption.

TimSPC

"I want them to feel that they are somebody and their congressman is somebody. And when they say, ‘This is nice,’ it feels good.”

It's not a huge deal and I don't want to make it one, but this is kind of a bad attitude for a public servant. After all, this is what he's supposed to be, someone who works for his constituency. I don't think people will feel their congressman is any less of a "somebody" if they're in a Toyota Corolla (or, god forbid, a pre-owned vehicle).

It's also not purpose of the public to make sure our congresspersons feel good. Again, it's not something to get hot and bothered about, but if I were a public servant, I would be a little more frugal.