Rangel gets primary challenge from former campaign director

Rep. Charles Rangel (D-N.Y.) will face a 2010 primary challenge from one of his own former campaign directors.

Vince Morgan, a New York banker who once worked for Rangel as a special assistant and subsequently as a campaign director, announced Monday that he would challenge Rangel for reelection.

Morgan's announcement comes after months of ethical scrutiny surrounding Rangel in regard to his alleged failure to have paid certain taxes and disclose some income on congressional filings.

Rangel has represented Harlem in Congress since 1971, during which time he has risen to become chairman of the powerful House Ways and Means Committee. Rangel has won his district — currently New York's 15th — overwhelmingly during the past few election cycles, having received only token Republican opposition.

"It's time for change," Morgan said in a press release. "Our district needs new leadership that is in touch with the community and the issues that confront us today.

"The 15th district deserves good leadership," Morgan added. "I hope voters will unite and empower me to be their voice in Washington."