California Rep. Darrell Issa has announced his retirement after 25 years in Congress, endorsing San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond to succeed him in the newly redrawn 48th District.
Rep. Darrell Issa, a Republican from California, confirmed on Friday that he will retire at the end of his current term. He has endorsed San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond to succeed him in the newly redrawn 48th District, which has been modified to favor Democratic candidates under the state’s Proposition 50.
In a statement to Fox News, Issa expressed his support for Desmond, saying, “Today I’m announcing my enthusiastic endorsement of Supervisor Jim Desmond for Congress — to represent California’s new 48th district. 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.”
Issa’s decision to step down after a quarter-century in Congress, along with an additional 25 years in the business sector, was not made lightly. He noted the overwhelming support he received during his tenure, including backing from former President Trump, and emphasized that his polling indicated a strong chance of victory in the upcoming race.
“First, we built the right campaign infrastructure, support has been overwhelming — including from President Trump — and our polling was unmistakable: We would win this race,” Issa stated. “But 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.”
Among his notable achievements, Issa highlighted his efforts to secure the Congressional Medal of Honor for retired Navy Captain Royce Williams. He credited President Trump for facilitating the award, reflecting on the long struggle to achieve this recognition.
“For a decade, my team and I waged a nonstop fight for Royce, and we were turned down on his behalf more times than I can remember,” Issa said. “But that all changed this year. President Trump made Royce’s award possible, and when I witnessed the First Lady place the Medal of Honor on my hero, it was more than just a job done. It felt like a career accomplishment.”
Despite his retirement announcement, Issa intends to remain focused on his responsibilities through 2026. He stated, “There is still work to be done throughout 2026 both in Washington and my beloved current 48th District — and as many days that remain, I’ll dedicate each one of them to the people I serve and the indispensable nation I have sworn to protect as a soldier in the Army and as a proud and grateful Member of the People’s House of Representatives.”
In a phone interview with Fox News, Issa expressed concerns about the current state of Congress, noting that it has “diminished itself.” He pointed to stagnant pay and the increasing influence of outside money in elections as significant issues.
“They have really, unfortunately, allowed outside money to exceed inside money in elections,” he remarked. “And more people live and die with social media rather than substance, so, I’m hoping that there’s a pendulum there. You know, some of only Congress can change.”
The National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) commended Issa for his long-standing service. NRCC Spokesman Christian Martinez stated, “We are grateful for Congressman Darrell Issa’s decades of dedicated service to the people of California and our nation. Throughout his career, he has embodied the spirit of public service, championed our military, and fought tirelessly for a stronger America.”
Martinez expressed optimism that the 48th District will continue to be represented by a Republican who will advocate for common sense and oppose what he described as the radical agenda of progressive candidates like Marni von Wilpert and socialist Ammar Campa-Najjar.
As Issa prepares to step away from Congress, his endorsement of Desmond marks a significant transition for the newly redrawn district, which will face new political dynamics in the upcoming elections.
According to Fox News, Issa’s retirement signifies the end of an era in California politics, as he leaves behind a legacy of service and dedication.