Chief Robert Rodriguez Immigrated from Mexico, Now Serves As Santa Ana Police Chief, Received Permanent Residency Under Reagan-Era Amnesty Program
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SANTA ANA, Calif. — Today, Representatives Lou Correa (D-CA), the top Democrat on the House Border Security and Enforcement Subcommittee, announced that he will be joined by Santa Ana Police Chief Robert Rodriguez as his guest to President Donald Trump’s Joint Address to Congress next week to reaffirm his commitment to fighting for comprehensive immigration reform. Rodriguez was born in Tijuana, Mexico and grew up in Santa Ana, California—obtaining his permanent residency through the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 under then-President Ronald Reagan.
Santa Ana Police Chief Robert Rodriguez, left, is congratulated by Santa Ana Police officer Corporal Anthony Pacheco, after a ceremony at Russell Elementary Language Academy in Santa Ana Calif., where Rodriguez was formally sworn in as Santa Ana Police Chief
"Chief Rodriquez came from humble beginnings. He came to the United States undocumented from Mexico in his youth, and received an earned pathway to citizenship from President Reagan in the 80s. Today, as Santa Ana’s Police Chief, his leadership, experience, and commitment to public service, shines bright as he shares his story and passion with his community each and every day. Immigrants like Chief Rodriguez are an essential part of our communities," Correa said. "Many undocumented immigrants, like our Dreamers, are nurses, police officers, and soldiers. They follow the law, pay taxes, and have built their lives in this country—graduating from American schools, growing in their careers, and starting their families here in America. I’m honored to host Chief Rodriguez as my guest for President Trump’s Joint Address, and to share his story with my colleagues in Congress to put a face on the story of immigrants like him—and to work to deliver an earned pathway to citizenship for others like him today.”
“My journey from undocumented immigrant to U.S. Citizen, and from Marine Corps veteran to Chief of Police, embodies the promise of the American Dream,” Rodriguez said. “It is a testament to resilience, dedication, and the unwavering belief that through hard work and service, we can uplift our communities and create a brighter future for all.”
Santa Ana Police Chief Robert Rodriguez (left) addresses crowd after swearing in, flanked by Rep. Lou Correa (right)
Chief Rodriguez immigrated to the United States with his parents and brothers at a young age and grew up as an undocumented immigrant. Moving frequently and attending ten different schools, he developed resilience and determination while navigating the challenges of uncertainty. Chief Rodriguez obtained his permanent residency through the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. With a deep sense of gratitude and commitment to service, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps upon gaining permanent residency. During his six years of honorable service, he earned his U.S. citizenship, marking the beginning of a lifelong dedication to public service and leadership.
Santa Ana Police Chief Robert Rodriguez is sworn in by his son, Robert Michael Rodriguez, during an Oath of Office Ceremony at Bowers Museum in Santa Ana on January 30, 2025
In 2000, Chief Rodriguez returned home to the Santa Ana Police Department. Chief Rodriguez held various assignments and leadership positions throughout the department and rose through the ranks to his current role as Chief of Police. In addition to his extensive practical experience, Chief Rodriguez brings a strong educational background to his role. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Chapman University and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Southern California (USC). Currently, he is working on his Doctorate in Policy Planning & Development, also from USC, further exemplifying his dedication to lifelong learning and public service excellence.