Chuy García's surprise exit revives Chicago's machine-era tactics
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Then-Cook County Commissioner Jesus "Chuy" García gives his concession speech on election night, April 7, 2015, in Chicago. Photo: Jonathan Gibby/Getty Images
Jesus "Chuy" García shocked the political world by announcing at the last minute that he wouldn't seek a fourth term in Congress representing the 4th district.
Why it matters: García, who has served in several elected positions for almost 40 years, is being questioned for his campaign move, which was so brazen that it could overshadow his decades-long political career.
Catch up quick: García waited until Monday's deadline to file petitions for the 2026 election to make his announcement. While he had gathered enough signatures for reelection, his chief of staff, Patty Garcia, also quietly gathered signatures to run.
- His about-face kept other potential candidates on the sidelines and ultimately anointed his chief of staff as the heir apparent.
Between the lines: The tactic was right out of the Chicago machine political playbook, subverting elections to maintain power. And it's out of character for the congressman who once served alongside Mayor Harold Washington and ran for mayor as a reformer.
What they're saying: "Shame on Congressman Jesus 'Chuy' García, who built a reputation by casting himself as a reformer and a man of the people only to throw it away," Urban Center CEO Juan Rangel said in a statement.
- "This will be his legacy."
The intrigue: This was once the norm for Chicago politicians of García's ilk. He is one of the only politicians still in office who once served alongside names like Richard Daley, Mike Madigan, Luis Gutiérrez and Ed Burke.
- And while the political maneuver is frowned upon, it's not illegal.
- "The machine's gonna do what the machine's gonna do," Ald. Ray Lopez (15th) told Fox 32.
Reality check: García is very popular in the 4th district, which includes the Southwest side and some suburbs. The district is considered a majority-Latino district and the congressman has been front and center over "Operation Midway Blitz" in Chicago.
- Patty Garcia, who has served as the director of the Latino Center for Leadership Development, is also a well-known name who has experience to run for elected office.
Yes, but: Because of the last-minute move, she'll run unopposed in the Democratic primary in March.
What we're watching: It's unclear what may be next for Chuy García, who has a history with most of the governing bodies in the Chicago area. His campaign did not get back to Axios.
- He could be sizing up another run for mayor in 2027 or even eyeing a future run for Cook County board president.
- The 69-year-old could also retire from politics.
The bottom line: García's maneuver may have guaranteed his chosen candidate will represent residents in the 4th district, but the sordid nature may cause some to think twice about his political legacy.