Serving
As the first openly LGBTQ+ immigrant in Congress and Ranking Member of House Oversight, Garcia is a rising Democratic star. His immigrant story - from undocumented child to Congress - is central to the immigration debate.
Represents Long Beach and Southeast LA. Led effort to expel George Santos. Two bipartisan bills signed into law in first full term. Comic book enthusiast who founded Popular Arts Caucus.
Key dates to watch: Primary on March 3, 2026 and General Election on November 3, 2026.
Robert Garcia immigrated from Peru at age 5 with his mother, fleeing the Shining Path terrorist group. They became undocumented when they overstayed their visas, later gaining legal status through the 1986 immigration reform. He became a U.S. citizen at 21 - which he calls the defining moment of his life. A career educator and comic book enthusiast, he made history as the first openly LGBTQ+ immigrant elected to Congress and first Peruvian American in Congress.
Born in Lima, Peru in 1977. Immigrated with mother at age 5 fleeing the Shining Path terrorist group. Family overstayed visitor visas and became undocumented. Gained legal status through 1986 Immigration Reform Act. Became U.S. citizen at 21. Raised in Southern California. Identifies with Superman as metaphor for immigrant experience - "strange visitor from another planet."
Professor for 10 years teaching communication and public policy at USC, CSULB, and Long Beach City College; Long Beach City Council member (2009-2014)
B.A. in Communications, Cal State Long Beach; M.A., University of Southern California; Ed.D. in Higher Education, Cal State Long Beach