House Rebukes Rep. Chuy García Over Election Maneuver

WASHINGTON — The House on Tuesday voted to publicly reprimand U.S. Rep. Chuy García, D-IL, for allegedly manipulating the election process surrounding his congressional seat. The unusual “disapproval” resolution was backed by 23 Democrats and nearly all Republicans, passing by a vote of 238-186 with 10 members not voting and four voting present.

García announced earlier this month that he would not seek re-election in 2026. On the filing deadline, his chief of staff, Patty García, filed her candidacy to run for his seat, effectively making her the only Democrat in the race. Sources indicate that Congressman García plans to withdraw his own candidacy, leaving Patty García as the likely successor for the heavily Democratic district.

The decision drew sharp criticism from within the Democratic Party. Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, D-Wash., introduced the resolution, citing the need to address “election subversion” and ensure fair representation. “My responsibility as an elected representative is to call out any action that subverts the rights of the people to choose their representatives,” she said during a speech on Monday.

Some Democrats expressed concern about the precedent set by the vote. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, D-IL, argued it was unfair to single out García, pointing out that similar maneuvers have occurred in the past. He suggested that Illinois election laws need reform instead of punitive measures against individual lawmakers.

García responded to the criticism during his retirement announcement, stating he was proud of his service and had followed Illinois election laws. He acknowledged the challenges his family faced, including the recent adoption of his grandchild following a personal tragedy.

As the vote approached, House Democratic leaders attempted to dissuade members from supporting the resolution. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries described García as a “progressive champion” and called the resolution misguided. “The American people are focused on the high cost of living, and this is not the issue they care about,” Jeffries said.

The fallout from the resolution has further divided the party, with many Democrats coming to García’s defense while others supported the rebuke. Criticism directed at Pérez highlighted the partisan tensions and urgency to preserve party unity.

While the House’s resolution may have passed, it has sparked significant debate on transparency and the integrity of election processes, as the party grapples with underlying divisions.