New York, NY - Congressman Charles Rangel released the following statement after Dominican lawmaker Danilo Medina was declared the winner in the nation's presidential elections on May 21, 2012:

"I congratulate President-elect Danilo Medina and Vice President-elect, Former First Lady Margarita Cedeño for their victory in the presidential elections. I fully respect the decision made by the people of the Dominican Republic in a free and fair election, and look forward to working with the new Administration to further strengthen our two countries’ relationship.

The Dominican Republic is the U.S.’s largest trading partner in the region, and is by far the largest consumer of U.S. goods. I am very proud to serve the Washington Heights community with a significant Dominican population, who continue to make a vibrant and rich cultural and economical contribution to our congressional district. I will keep working hard in Congress to expand trade relations with our Carribean friends that will also help open new markets and opportunities for Domincan Americans in our local community.”