Independent Political Organization of the 22nd Ward

I’m honored to receive Congresswoman Delia Ramirez endorsement. Delia leads with moral clarity—fighting for immigrant families here at home and standing up for human rights abroad. When cruelty is being normalized, her courage to block the bombs and protect our communities is exactly the kind of leadership I will carry with me to Congress.

This coming year, the 22nd Ward IPO celebrates 44 years of existence, and one common thread has run through all those decades — the steadfast leadership of Chuy García.

For four decades, Chuy has led with dignity, grace, and compassion. He has fought tirelessly to build unity and power for working-class people, always putting community first. It is with deep gratitude and a heavy heart that we thank Chuy for his unwavering dedication and service. His shoes will be hard to fill, but thankfully, that mantle of leadership will now be carried forward by Dr. Patty García.

At tonight’s historic meeting, the 22nd Ward IPO unanimously and enthusiastically endorsed Dr. Patty García as our new leader. As founding member Lupe Lozano shared so eloquently, “Chuy has accomplished nothing over the last several years that didn’t have Patty’s work behind it.”

From her early years growing up in Little Village, to her work empowering communities across the country, and now as a proud suburban Latina, Patty is ready to lead with the same spirit of unity, justice, and compassion that has defined our movement for generations.

Jesús "Chuy" García
Alderperson Michael D. Rodriguez
State Senator Celina Villanueva
Commissioner Eira Corral Sepúlveda
Ely Bahena
Edgar Gonzalez, Jr.
Commissioner Alma E. Anaya

For more than 40 years, Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García has dedicated his life to public service and the advancement of our communities. He’s shown us that true leadership means showing up, listening, and standing with our people.

As one of the few Latino voices in rooms where we were often absent, Chuy paved the way for others, including myself, to lead with purpose and carry forward progressive values.

His decision not to run for re-election was deeply personal and undoubtedly difficult. While some may feel disappointed or even frustrated by this news, we should remember that leadership also means knowing when to make space for new voices and new energy. After decades of tireless service, Chuy has more than earned the right to make this choice on his own terms.

Let us honor his legacy, one rooted in courage, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to community. His work has inspired generations of Latino and progressive leaders, and his impact will continue to shape our movement for years to come.

Thank you, Chuy, for your decades of leadership and for showing us what true public service looks like.

Learn more about Congressman García’s decision here: https://capitolfax.com/2025/11/04/chuy-garcia-talks-about-why-he-dropped-out-of-his-reelection-bid/

“Little Village is one of Chicago’s youngest and most dynamic communities—yet for far too long, it has gone without a publicly accessible, year-round permanent pool. As a lifelong resident and former youth participant and staff member at Piotrowski Park, I am deeply proud to bring this historic $8 million investment—the city’s first outdoor covered pool—to the heart of the 22nd Ward. This is not just about a pool; it’s about delivering equity, expanding opportunity, and investing in the future of our youth and our neighborhood,” said Alderperson Mike Rodriguez.

Alderperson Michael D. Rodriguez at the DNC 2nd night!