Father of DC Israeli Museum Gunman Attended Trump Speech as Dem Guest

The father of Elias Rodriguez, the man charged with killing two Israeli embassy staffers outside the Capital Jewish Museum, was invited as a guest by Democratic Rep. Jesús “Chuy” García to President Donald Trump’s joint address to Congress in March. Eric Rodriguez, an Iraq War veteran and advocate for veterans’ rights, was praised by Rep. García as a dedicated community member and union supporter. Elias Rodriguez admitted to the shootings, shouting pro-Palestinian slogans and expressing motives linked to Gaza during his arrest. Following the attack, Rep. García condemned the shooting as a senseless act of antisemitism and distanced himself from the shooter's family. The incident and the prior invitation of the father to a high-profile political event have drawn significant media attention, highlighting the complexities surrounding the individuals involved. Authorities continue to investigate the case, including writings attributed to Elias Rodriguez that may shed light on his motivations.