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Magic Johnson's Strong Reaction to Passing of New York Legend

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated May 28, 2025 7:03 AM ET

Magic Johnson has had the opportunity to cross paths with all sorts of personalities over the years. The Hall of Famer has remained a relevant figure in the basketball world since he retired from the game nearly three decades ago.

Johnson spent his entire 17-year NBA career with the Los Angeles Lakers, where he firmly established himself as one of the biggest icons of the esteemed franchise. Johnson achieved this honor behind 12 All-Star appearances, 10 All-NBA nods, three Finals MVP wins and five NBA championships, to name a few of his accolades.

Since his time with the Lakers, Johnson's influence has also extended beyond the realm of sports. While the 65-year-old has not entered the world of politics, he's had the chance to meet more than a few prominent government officials through the years.

One of them was Congressman Charlie Rangel, who represented New York's 15th Congressional District between 1971 and 2017.

Rangel passed away on Monday at the age of 94. His family announced his passing, but the official cause of death was not immediately disclosed.

On Tuesday, Johnson took to social media to share his heartfelt reaction to Rangel's passing.

"Rest in Peace to legendary Congressman Charlie Rangel! Congressman Rangel was a true champion for Harlem and the entire NYC community throughout his 46-year run as a congressman," Johnson wrote on X.

"What an incredible legacy!! In his 23 terms he was one of the most effective lawmakers in Congress, leading all of his colleagues in passing legislation. His dedication to his community and commitment to service will be missed. Cookie and I are praying for the entire Rangel family, friends and loved ones."

Rest in Peace to legendary Congressman Charlie Rangel! Congressman Rangel was a true champion for Harlem and the entire NYC community throughout his 46-year run as a congressman. What an incredible legacy!! In his 23 terms he was one of the most effective lawmakers in Congress,…
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) May 28, 2025

To honor the death of Rangel, New York Governor Kathy Hochul ordered flags to be lowered at half-staff on Tuesday, as well as on the day of his funeral service.

During his nearly five-decade tenure as a congressman, Rangel was a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus. He was also the first African American to chair the Ways and Means Committee, which is considered one of the most powerful committees in Congress.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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