Rep. Jesús “Chuy” García faces mounting scrutiny after inviting Eric Rodriguez, father of a suspected terrorist, to Trump’s address to Congress as his official guest.

At a Glance

• Eric Rodriguez, father of accused terrorist Elias Rodriguez, attended Trump’s joint session speech as Rep. García’s guest
• García’s spokesperson claims they “don’t know his family” despite personally introducing Rodriguez
• Rep. García has a history of opposing pro-Israel measures, including Iron Dome funding and anti-BDS resolutions
• Rodriguez, a VA employee and SEIU member, expressed concerns about Trump administration changes to veteran care
• García has faced previous accusations of antisemitism while maintaining he has strong relationships with Jewish communities

Controversial Guest Raises Questions

A startling connection emerged following President Trump’s recent address to Congress when it was revealed that Rep. Jesús “Chuy” García (D-IL) invited Eric Rodriguez, father of accused terrorist Elias Rodriguez, as his official guest. Despite this personal invitation, García’s team quickly distanced themselves from any knowledge of Rodriguez’s family ties. “Eric Rodriguez was our guest during the President’s Joint Speech to Congress, but we don’t know his family,” a spokesperson for Garcia stated.

García, a veteran Chicago politician with extensive experience in the city council, Cook County Board of Commissioners, and as a state senator, has twice run unsuccessfully for Chicago mayor. His political career has been bolstered by endorsements from prominent progressive figures, including Bernie Sanders and the Democratic Socialists of America, establishing him firmly on the left wing of the Democratic Party.

VA Worker’s Concerns

Eric Rodriguez, who works for Veterans Affairs and belongs to the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), apparently attended the congressional address to voice concerns about changes to the VA system. As an Iraq War veteran himself, Rodriguez has been vocal about potential impacts of administration policies on veterans’ care. During his time in Washington, he specifically mentioned worries about the current administration’s approach.

“I’ve been with the VA for three years, and the reason why I’m in Washington, D.C., is because I’m concerned about what Donald Trump, Elon Musk and DOGE are doing to the VA system,” Eric Rodriguez stated.

The Department of Veterans Affairs has recently faced criticism for operational inefficiencies and several canceled contracts, though VA officials maintain these changes will not negatively affect veteran care. García publicly praised Rodriguez as a representative of the community and defender of working people when introducing him as his guest for the high-profile event.

Complicated Stance on Israel

García’s association with Rodriguez comes amid a backdrop of controversial positions on Israel. While the congressman publicly condemned antisemitism following a Capitol shooting, saying, “I strongly condemn this horrible, senseless act of antisemitism. My heart is with the victims and everyone impacted by the attack,” his legislative record tells a more complex story. García has opposed resolutions condemning the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement against Israel and voted against additional funding for Israel’s Iron Dome defense system.

These positions have drawn criticism from some in the Jewish community who question his commitment to fighting antisemitism. When challenged on these votes, García has defended his record by pointing to long-standing relationships with Jewish community leaders and organizations. The congressman’s balancing act between progressive politics and traditional Democratic support for Israel highlights the growing tensions within the party over Middle East policy.

Political Context

The controversy unfolded against the backdrop of President Trump’s first address to Congress of his second term, where he highlighted early achievements and proclaimed the beginning of a “Golden Age of America.” Trump told lawmakers, “Six weeks ago, I stood beneath the dome of this Capitol and proclaimed the dawn of the Golden Age of America. From that moment on, it has been nothing but swift and unrelenting action to usher in the greatest and most successful era in the history of our country.”

The speech itself was not without drama, featuring protests from some Democratic lawmakers, including Rep. Al Green, who was removed from the chamber for heckling. Additionally, newly imposed tariffs on Canada and Mexico created diplomatic tensions, though Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has indicated a resolution may be forthcoming. With a potential government shutdown looming just days away, the political environment remains highly charged as both parties maneuver for advantage.