California Rep Darrell Issa to retire, endorses Jim Desmond to succeed him

Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Calif., will retire at the end of his current term and is backing San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond to succeed him, he confirmed to Fox News Friday.

"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 said stepping down after 25 years in Congress - and another 25 in business - was not an easy decision.

"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," he 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."

Issa said he will remain focused on serving through 2026.

"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," he said.

In a phone interview with Fox News, Issa also argued Congress has "diminished itself," citing stagnant pay and the growing influence of outside money in elections.

"They have really, unfortunately, allowed outside money to exceed inside money in elections," he said. "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) praised Issa's tenure.

"We are grateful for Congressman Darrell Issa's decades of dedicated service to the people of California and our nation," NRCC Spokesman Christian Martinez told Fox News. "Throughout his career, he has embodied the spirit of public service, championed our military and fought tirelessly for a stronger America.