Democrat Calls Out Party Over 'Election Subversion'
In a striking move highlighting internal Democratic tensions, Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez is publicly challenging a colleague from her own party. The Washington Democrat is forcing a House vote this week on a symbolic resolution that formally disapproves of retiring Illinois Representative Chuy García's actions.
Gluesenkamp Perez accuses García of scheming to install his chief of staff as his successor in Congress. The resolution describes this as an act that 'undermines the process of a free and fair election.' She stated her motivation clearly on CNN, saying, 'I believe election subversion is wrong no matter who’s doing it.'
The Controversial Succession Plan
The controversy stems from García's actions surrounding his retirement. He initially announced he would run for reelection, only to declare his retirement after the deadline for new candidates to file paperwork had already passed. His chief of staff, Patty Garcia, filed to run just before this deadline and, as a result, became the only candidate for the seat.
This tactic is not new in Illinois politics. In 2005, former Representative Bill Lipinski used a similar maneuver to clear a path for his son, Dan Lipinski, to win election to Congress effortlessly.
García's spokesperson defended the congressman, stating his decision was based on personal health reasons and his wife's worsening condition. 'He followed every rule and every filing requirement laid out by the State of Illinois,' the spokesperson said, adding that he hoped colleagues would show compassion.
Broader Implications for Democratic Rhetoric
Gluesenkamp Perez's action has ignited a debate about consistency in the Democratic Party's stance on protecting democracy. While many Democrats rightly point to the Republican Party's record on election integrity, Gluesenkamp Perez and a handful of allies argue that the party's rhetoric can seem hollow when its own members engage in practices that limit voter choice.
Notably, Senator Andy Kim of New Jersey backed Gluesenkamp Perez. Kim, who won his seat by challenging his state's powerful political machines, wrote on social media that García's decision was 'undemocratic and should not be allowed.' He emphasized that 'standing against corruption means standing up no matter which political party violates.'
This is not the first time Gluesenkamp Perez, a co-chair of the conservative-leaning Blue Dog Coalition, has broken with her party. She was one of six House Democrats who recently voted for a bill to end a government shutdown and has previously pushed for cognitive tests for aging members of Congress.
The House could vote on the resolution as soon as Monday evening. The measure would likely pass if it receives support from Republican members, serving as a formal, though symbolic, rebuke of García's conduct.
