Rep. Luis Gutierrez Announces He Won't Seek Re-Election

CHICAGO, IL — Rep. Luis Gutierrez announced Tuesday that he does not plan to seek re-election next year. The 63-year-old lawmaker has represented Illinois' 4th congressional district since 1993. Gutierrez emphasized during a press conference that he's not "retiring" and will continue his fight for equality and just immigration laws.

Gutierrez has been a leader in challenging President Donald Trump's immigration orders and pushing for federal aid to help rebuild hurricane-ravaged Puerto Rico.

"I'm not going to rule out any future office," Gutierrez said. "I'm not leaving. I want to engage."

From 1986 until his election to Congress, Gutierrez served as an alderman representing the 26th Ward. His parents moved to Chicago from Puerto Rico, and he was born and raised in the city's Lincoln Park neighborhood.

In Tuesday's press conference, held at Maggiano's Little Italy, Gutierrez endorsed Cook County Board Commissioner Jesus "Chuy" Garcia to take his seat when the term ends in 2019. The 4th district includes Chicago's West Side and some western suburbs.

“One thing I know is Luis Gutierrez will not stop fighting for what he believes in until the last vote is cast, and even then will continue working for the causes he has championed throughout his life because he believes in them with his heart," Mayor Rahm Emanuel said in a statement. "Luis Gutierrez’s journey from a taxi driver to a US Congressman is a testament to the power of the American Dream.”

Ald. Carlos Ramirez-Rosa (35th) may also circulate petitions for the 4th district seat, according to ABC 7.

Image via Rep. Luis Gutiérrez's office