CHICAGO _ Longtime Democratic U.S. Rep. Luis Gutierrez won't seek re-election next year, sources said Monday night, setting off a domino effect in Chicago Latino politics.
As a result, Cook County Commissioner Jesus "Chuy" Garcia plans to start gathering signatures to seek Gutierrez's congressional seat, sources said. And 22nd Ward Alderman Ric Munoz plans to runs for Garcia's county board seat.
The decision marks a change from Monday morning, when Gutierrez's campaign filed his paperwork to secure a spot on the March 20 primary ballot. Gutierrez, a high-profile pro-immigration activist, has been in Congress since 1993, representing the 4th District.