CHICAGO (WLS) — The composition of Illinois’ congressional delegation is poised for notable shifts.

In an unexpected development, sources have confirmed to ABC7 that Representative Jesús “Chuy” García, currently serving Illinois’ 4th Congressional District, will not be seeking reelection in 2026. This announcement was followed by his chief of staff, Patty Garcia, submitting her candidacy petitions just before the deadline on Monday at 5 p.m.

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Patty Garcia, who is unrelated to the congressman, has been part of his team since 2019, initially as his district director before stepping into the role of chief of staff in 2023. With her filing, she stands as the sole contender for the Democratic nomination for the 4th District, effectively setting her on a course for a congressional seat in 2026.

This maneuver has sparked criticism, with some observers labeling it as a “coronation,” reminiscent of traditional Chicago political tactics that favor insider succession.

Despite these developments, the Illinois State Board of Elections has already received Jesús García’s petitions for candidacy, submitted on October 27, indicating his intention to complete his current term.

The move means there are now five open House seats and an open Senate race in the March 17 primary.

In the 2nd Congressional District, Rep. Robin Kelly is stepping down to run for Sen. Dick Durbin’s seat; Rep. Jan Schakowsky announced her retirement in the 9th District; longtime Rep. Danny Davis is retiring from the 7th District; and in the 8th District, Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi will run for Senate.

ABC7 could not reach Rep. García for comment Monday.

The last-minute decision drew some jeers, including a blistering statement from the Urban Center, a centrist nonprofit dedicated to a “common sense” agenda for families and economic development.

“Shame on Congressman Chuy García who built a reputation by casting himself as a reformer and man of the people only to throw it away. This will be his legacy,” a statement from the Urban Center reads, in part.

Rep. García is 69 and served as Chicago alderman, Cook County commissioner and state senator. He was also a two-time mayoral candidate.

He took over the 4th District from then-Rep. Luis Gutierrez in 2018, when he suddenly announced his resignation.