Overview
- The House adopted a nonbinding resolution of disapproval, with Republicans joined by 23 Democrats, to reprimand García for engineering a one-candidate Democratic primary.
- García filed for reelection, then announced his retirement after Illinois’ deadline, as his chief of staff, Patty García (no relation), submitted signatures to become the sole Democrat on the ballot.
- Election documents reported by Politico show Rep. García was the first signatory on Patty García’s petition, and he has acknowledged helping collect signatures.
- García denies wrongdoing, saying he followed Illinois law and citing his wife's illness, his own health, and the recent adoption of a grandchild as reasons for his timing.
- Senior Democrat Sen. Dick Durbin called the maneuver a mistake, while Patty García remains the lone Democratic candidate in the safe D+17 seat, with possible independent and Republican opponents in November.