The New York City Democratic Socialists of America co-chair, Gustavo Gordillo, faces scrutiny over discrepancies in his personal and family background. His narrative of having working-class roots has come under question due to records and evidence contradicting his claims.

Family History Under Examination

Gordillo has often highlighted his family’s immigrant story to justify his socialist beliefs. He claims his parents arrived in the U.S. with nothing, working initially in low-paying jobs. Gordillo uses this narrative to argue for socialism, stating it can create a world where such success stories aren’t rare.

“My parents came here, they had nothing,” Gordillo told the New York Times.

However, a 2021 obituary for Gordillo’s grandfather, Manuel Gordillo, challenges this account. Manuel emigrated from Peru to practice medicine in the U.S. in 1958 and established a successful career, eventually leading the Ohio Psychiatric Association. This casts doubt on claims of his parents’ impoverishment.

Discrepancies in Living Arrangements

Additions to the controversy involve Gordillo’s housing situation. While he claimed to rent a modest apartment in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, reports reveal he resides in a $1.4 million townhouse owned by his father in a more affluent part of Brooklyn. New York City Councilwoman Vickie Paladino criticized this, pointing to the DSA’s stance against such practices.

Questions About Occupational Identity

Gordillo’s professional claims are also under scrutiny. Despite labeling himself as a “union electrician,” he hasn’t been with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) since his apprenticeship termination due to absenteeism. The IBEW confirmed Gordillo’s dismissal, yet he continues to present himself under this occupation on social media.

Efforts to contact Gordillo and the NYC Democratic Socialists of America for comments went unanswered, maintaining the air of speculation around his story.