Darrell Issa's retirement opens Palm Springs-area House race for queer Democrats

"This decision has been on my mind for a while and I didn't make it lightly. 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."

"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."

"The retirement reshapes the race for California's 48th District, which spans parts of San Diego and Riverside counties. A voter-approved redistricting plan last year shifted the once-safely Republican district into one where Democrats now hold a roughly 4-point registration edge."

Darrell Issa, a 72-year-old Republican representative who served San Diego-area districts for over two decades, announced his retirement from Congress, citing completion of a quarter-century in both business and politics. The newly redrawn 48th Congressional District now tilts toward Democrats with a roughly 4-point registration advantage following voter-approved redistricting. Despite internal polling and support from President Trump suggesting he could win reelection, Issa decided it was time for new challenges. He endorsed Jim Desmond, a Republican county supervisor and Navy veteran, as his successor. Desmond has faced criticism from LGBTQ+ activists regarding his positions on transgender sports participation.

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