U.S. News
Republican Veteran Abandons Tight Re-Election Race Amid Narrow Majority* Risks* Crisis
Clear Facts
- Republican Rep. Darrell Issa ended his re-election bid for California’s new 48th district.
- Issa served 25 years in Congress, including chairing House Oversight Committee.
- California Gov. Gavin Newsom redrew maps targeting up to five GOP seats.
- Issa endorsed San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond as successor.
- GOP holds narrow 218-214 House majority facing tough retention battle.
Republican Rep. Darrell Issa announced Friday on X he would not seek re-election despite confidence in winning the redrawn district pushed by Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom.
The veteran lawmaker cited a desire for new challenges after a quarter-century in Congress and prior business career.
“After a quarter-century in Congress — and before that, a quarter-century in business — it’s the right time for a new chapter and new challenges.”
Issa posted.
Issa holds 37 patents. He first won his seat in 2000, retired once, then returned in 2020 after Rep. Duncan Hunter’s campaign fund indictment.
He led probes into Obama-era Operation Fast and Furious, where rifles reached Mexican cartels, and held Eric Holder in contempt for withholding documents.
Issa also examined the 2021 Kabul bombing that killed 13 U.S. troops, hosting families critical of President Biden’s withdrawal.
In his retirement announcement, Issa backed Jim Desmond, a Navy veteran and local leader.
“I’m announcing my enthusiastic endorsement of Supervisor Jim Desmond for Congress – to represent California’s new 48th district.”
Issa said.
“Jim is not only a personal friend, he’s a true patriot, a Navy veteran, a successful businessman, and has a 20-year record of public service.”
“He understands this community, was born and raised here, and will make a terrific Congressman.”
Stand with proven conservatives fighting Democrat schemes—back Jim Desmond to hold the line.
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