The U.S. House of Representatives is poised to issue a formal rebuke to Rep. Chuy García, a seasoned Illinois Democrat, over his contentious maneuver to ensure his chief of staff succeeds him. This decision has sparked considerable discord within his own party, particularly triggering a response from Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez of Washington, who has taken an uncommon step to fast-track the rebuke process.

Earlier this month, García announced his retirement, timing it right after the candidate qualification period had closed. This timing effectively secured his chief of staff a clear path to his seat in the predominantly Democratic district of Chicago, a move that did not sit well with some party members.

This act of political orchestration has not only divided the Democratic caucus but has also clashed with other party priorities. House Democratic leaders, who were focusing on critiquing GOP strategies on health care and the aftermath of the Jeffrey Epstein case, found themselves sidetracked by this internal controversy.

A resolution to dismiss the censure against García was narrowly defeated in a 211-206 vote, with Rep. Jared Golden of Maine siding with Gluesenkamp Perez. The House is now gearing up for a heated debate and a conclusive vote expected as early as Tuesday.

During the debate, Gluesenkamp Perez expressed her disdain for García's tactics, stating, "You don't get your cake and eat it, too. If you are not going to run, you don't choose your successor — no matter the work you have done beforehand."

On the other hand, García defended his decision as one motivated by personal health and family needs, arguing that his retirement should be seen as a moment for empathy rather than division. "Our job comes second to the people waiting at home," he remarked, emphasizing the personal sacrifices often made by public servants.

Despite García's defense, figures like Sen. Andy Kim of New Jersey and strategist David Axelrod have voiced support for Gluesenkamp Perez’s stance. Meanwhile, Rep. Sean Casten and Rep. Jan Schakowsky, both from Illinois, acknowledged the problematic nature of García’s actions but questioned whether it warranted such extensive legislative attention.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus have shown unwavering support for García, highlighting his long-standing contributions to progressive causes and underserved communities.

Gluesenkamp Perez continues to stand firm in her criticism, recently arguing on CNN that the issue goes beyond party unity to encompass leadership integrity, stating, "It's not just about having affordable stuff or holding another team accountable, it's that we want leadership. We want a team that calls a spade a spade."

This dispute not only underscores the complexities of political succession but also highlights the ongoing struggle within the Democratic Party to balance internal cohesion with principled governance. As the final vote approaches, all eyes are on how this political drama will unfold, potentially setting precedents for future succession ethics in Congress.

*Mia McCarthy contributed to this report.*