Dr. Patty Garcia kicked off her campaign for Illinois’ 4th Congressional seat Wednesday at Food Market La Chiquita in Cicero, where she worked as a teenager.
“We need people who are responsible, hardworking, who are diligent,” Ald. Mike Rodriguez (22nd) said introducing Garcia. “Leaders who not only understand the challenges our families face but also have the experience and ability to deliver. That’s why I am proud to stand here with Dr. Patty Garcia for Congress!”
Garcia has no family ties to the retiring incumbent Jesus “Chuy” Garcia, but she has been his chief of staff for six years
Garcia, who grew up in the district, challenged criticism for filing to run for the U.S. House just prior to the Nov. 3 deadline.
“This is an open process,” she said. “Any person who’s interested in running can apply, can circulate petitions and submit an application. We followed the rules and collected signatures and we submitted an application. We didn’t stop anybody from applying.”
Chuy Garcia pulled out of the race last week citing health and personal reasons, but he pledged to finish out his term.
“I have faith that the next generation of leaders will hit the ground running,” he said in a written statement after being called back to Washington. He added that Patty Garcia’s experience would allow her to dive right into the job.
“Patty knows the issues, knows the players in Washington, and has the talent and heart to deliver real results for working families,” he said. “Our district will be stronger with Patty in Congress and I’m proud to endorse her.”
She cited her long experience in the D.C. congressional arena as a reason for constituents to trust and vote for her.
Garcia said her personal meetings with constituents over coffee and experience and navigating federal agencies to help secure grants to influence legislation has helped to satisfy the demands of the district.
“I will do everything in my power to be able to connect with voters and earn their trust,” she said.
At times getting emotional, Garcia said she will run an inclusive campaign and wants to hear from 4th District residents.
Speaking on Chicago’s federal law enforcement presence, Garcia wants to abolish Immigration and Customs Enforcement and hold the Trump administration accountable for their decisions.
“I’ve stood in the picket lines with our brothers and sisters,” Garcia said. “I’ve fought alongside families facing ICE detention and prevented their detention, because that’s what you do for your community! Show up!”
Humane immigration policies providing pathways to citizenship, quality education and a living wage are also priorities for the candidate.
She is proud of her work with Rep. Garcia including securing funding for hospitals, youth centers, flood mitigation and over $50 million for community projects and more in the city and suburbs.
Transportation remains a key issue on the Southwest Side, especially with plans to convert Ford City Mall into a massive industrial complex with warehousing, distribution and light manufacturing that would increase truck traffic in the area.
“As someone who’s used public transportation and as a commuter, I can tell you about the work I’ve been [doing] with the congressman in his role on the [House Committee] on Transportation and Infrastructure,” Garcia said.
Noting Chicago’s role as a transportation hub for the Midwest and for the country, the candidate stated she and the congressman have been working with not-for-profit and [other] organizations to identify needs around right rail separation (right-of-way and grade separation), commuter time and congestion and accessibility to services.
Ald. Jeylu Gutierrez (14th) endorsed Garcia, praising her experience and dedication.
“I am proud to offer my full support for Patty Garcia for Congress. Patty has been a true trailblazer for our communities — a dedicated advocate who has spent years working side by side with Congressman Garcia to deliver real results for our working families,” she said. “Patty is ready to take that fight to Congress, and I have every confidence she will continue to serve the 4th. District with integrity, compassion, and determination for all of us.”
Other supporters at the campaign launch included family, friends, labor leaders from the Service Employees International Union and Amalgamated Transit Union, state Senators Celina Villanueva and Javier Cervantes, state Reps. Aaron Ortiz, Edgar Gonzalez and Norma Hernandez, Cook County Commissioner Alma Anaya and Alderman Rodriguez.
“Democrats have been criticized for their ability to deliver on their promises,” she said. “Well, here’s my promise to the people. I will not sugarcoat the challenges ahead. I’ll be honest about the fights. I’ll be honest and clear about my position and who I’m fighting for. Because at the end of the day, it’s not about me. It’s about us. And if we dare to struggle we dare to win.”