Espaillat and Rangel Surrogate Clash Over Obama’s HUD

Ross Barkan

At least one Congressman Charlie Rangel surrogate is fed up with his rival’s attacks on the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Congressman Gregory Meeks, a Queens lawmaker, ripped State Senator Adriano Espaillat today for his claim that HUD has been an “absentee landlord” in New York City. Mr. Meeks said that Mr. Espaillat’s critique amounted to an attack on President Barack Obama, who has become a focal point in the race.

“President Obama has not abandoned one single neighborhood in New York when it comes to affordable housing. Anyone who says that does not understand the policies and certainly does not understand or support the President’s housing agenda,” Mr. Meeks charged in a statement.

“With two years left in the Obama presidency, we need someone in Washington who will support the President’s housing agenda not attack it. Senator Espaillat’s lack of understanding on this issue makes me question whether he is ready for Congress,” Mr. Meeks added.

Read more at http://observer.com/2014/05/espaillat-and-rangel-surrogate-clash-over-obamas-hud/#ixzz331mc1E4K