Chuy Garcia's Wife Urged Him To Run For Mayor

CHICAGO (CBS) -- Jesus "Chuy" Garcia is acting like a winner the day after securing the chance to take on Mayor Rahm Emanuel in an April runoff election.

CBS 2's Dana Kozlov talked with the woman who could be Chicago's next first lady.
It has been quite a week for Evelyn and Chuy Garcia. They were certainly all smiles last night at the campaign party. They've spent their lives in the city.

Mrs. Garcia says she's excited at her husband's 34 percent voter support but adds they have a lot more work to do.

Evelyn Garcia said Chuy is the right person for the job because, "He's committed. He's a neighborhood guy."

And Evelyn Garcia says she and her husband both believe city government can do better. It's why she's committed to helping him become the next mayor of Chicago, with all that goes with what will likely be a grueling campaign, even as she manages multiple sclerosis.

"I listen to my body because of the MS and so that comes first," she said.

Cook County Commissioner Jesus "Chuy" Garcia entered the mayoral race late last fall at not only the urging of Chicago Teachers Union President Karen Lewis, but his wife, too.

The 58-year-old Garcia thanked his wife of 38 years for her support at his campaign night party-

The enthusiasm in that room was obvious almost as obvious as Garcia's now trademark facial hair.

"I love the mustache," she said. "It tickles me and so you know 38 years later it is growing and growing. It is part of his character."

The Garcias have two grown children and raised three foster children. A daughter died at 14 months from muscular dystrophy.

When asked if she's up for what could be a contentious campaign, Mrs. Garcia said she can handle it.