Rep. Luis Gutierrez (D-Ill.) announced Thursday that he would not put his hat in the race for Chicago mayor, deciding instead to continue working on immigration issues in Congress.

“I have unfinished business to complete, so I will not be a candidate for Mayor of the City of Chicago,” Gutierrez said in a statement.

Gutierrez said he wants to continue to fight for an overhaul of immigration laws. “I am one-hundred percent committed to fighting for fairness and justice for immigrants, and to continue the battle for comprehensive immigration reform,” he said.

His was among a number of names that have been circulated as potential contenders for the seat held by Mayor Richard Daley, who has said he will not seek a seventh term. Rahm Emanuel (D), President Barack Obama’s former chief of staff, has declared he will run. Lawmakers who have not ruled out a run include Democratic Reps. Danny Davis and Jesse Jackson Jr.

Gutierrez said his decision against running was not for lack of support. “We have lots of funding, and commitments for more,” he said. “We have a poll that says we are in a very strong position and that the Latino community in particular would rally to my candidacy.

“I love the City of Chicago,” Gutierrez added. “I would love to be Mayor of the city of Chicago, and I believe I could do great things for people.”