CHICAGO (WLS) — U.S. Rep. Jesús "Chuy" García says he is preparing to close the book on a political career that has stretched across 40 years, reflecting on accomplishments, disappointments and the personal reasons behind his decision to step away when his term ends in January.

García, who first entered public office in as a member of the Chicago City Council representing the 22nd Ward, said he has witnessed sweeping changes in city politics -some good and some not so good. Though he is leaving elected office, he said he hopes to continue influencing civic life.

During a visit to a favorite Little Village restaurant, García shared reflections and regrets, hurts and hopes.

When asked how he feels as he prepares to end his tenure, he said, "I feel quite blessed. I feel like we’ve accomplished a variety of things to advance the community, to change politics."

García entered the City Council in 1986 during the administration of Mayor Harold Washington, becoming a progressive ally.

"As a veteran of Chicago politics, I can claim that we helped dismantle the machine in the city of Chicago," he said.

His career included service as a state senator, Cook County commissioner, and two mayoral campaigns – first in 2015, when he forced Rahm Emanuel into a runoff, and again in 2023. García was elected to Congress in 2018.

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One regret, he said, is the failure to pass federal immigration reform. "I wish we would have passed immigration reform. I was sure when I was elected to Congress that we would pass some measure, at least the Dreamers and other people that have been here for a long time."

García also reflected on Operation Midway Blitz, an immigration enforcement action in Chicago.

"To see that play out here in our community – the aggressive nature, the violence, the vitriol that agents carried out unapologetically – I never imagined," he said.

Despite the trauma, he believes Little Village is recovering.

"I think the community, while traumatized, while hurting, is coming back," García said.

García defended his late decision not to seek reelection, which cleared the path for his chief of staff, Patty Garcia – no relation – to win the March Democratic primary.

"I accept people’s critiques of my decision. I can understand why," he said.

García cited his wife Evelyn’s health issues and the responsibility of raising their 9-year-old grandson as key factors in stepping away.

"Especially reflecting on the last year and all the developments that are happening in politics, in the world, in our society, it’s a good time," he said.

García said he hopes to remain connected to public life after retiring, possibly through guest lecturing, encouraging activism or even writing a book.