Erie County Republican Party Chairman Jim Domagalski is calling on Jon Powers to return $9,000 in campaign contributions from NY Congressman Charlie Rangel following a New York Times story. The Times report alleges Rangel received “sweetheart” deals on rent controlled apartment spaces from a real estate developer, one of which he uses as a campaign office despite city regulations that demand such rent-stabilized spaces be used as primary residences only.

Press Release:

In light of today’s New York Times article highlighting Rep. Charlie Rangel’s sweatheart [sic] real estate deals Erie County Republican Chairman James P. Domagalski called on Congressional candidate Jon Powers to show “leadership by example” and return Congressman Rangel’s $9,000 in campaign contributions.

“At a time when many Western New York families are being hit by the housing crisis Jon Powers is taking campaign contributions from a senior Democrat Congressman who now appears to have taken sweatheart real estate deals,” said Domagalski. “Jon Powers should cancel his upcoming fundraiser with Rangel and return his campaign contributions.”

The Buffalo Bean notes according to Roll Call Rangel and Powers are set to hold a joint fundraiser.