Darrell Issa Declines Texas Offer, Vows to Stay and Fight in California After Redistricting

Issa Says No to Texas, Commits to California

Rep. Darrell Issa told The Associated Press that Texas Republican colleagues asked him to consider relocating to the Dallas area to run for Congress after a wave of mid‑decade redistricting altered maps in both Texas and California. Issa said he weighed the idea — including the possibility of running in Texas' 32nd Congressional District northeast of Dallas — but ultimately decided to remain in California and urged fellow GOP incumbents drawn into tougher districts to do the same.

“I’m not giving up on California, and hopefully none of my colleagues that have been drawn into tough districts are going to give up. I’m hoping they all run and preferably not against each other,” Issa told the AP by phone.

Two California Republicans, Reps. Ken Calvert and Young Kim, have already announced plans to run against one another in a newly drawn district that combines parts of Riverside and Orange counties. Other GOP incumbents, including Reps. Doug LaMalfa and Kevin Kiley, have said they plan to seek reelection despite facing more difficult districts.

Why Mid‑Decade Maps Sparked Interest

The recent flurry of map changes followed a push by former President Donald Trump urging Texas Republicans to redraw congressional lines to try to gain five seats. California Democrats responded with new maps intended to add seats for their party — a plan approved by voters — and other states have taken similar steps. Federal courts have blocked or altered some mid‑decade redistricting efforts, and Issa said he believes redrawing districts between censuses is “inherently unconstitutional.”

Issa said members of the Texas delegation approached him out of what some described as practical and symbolic reasons: with newly created or altered districts, some Republicans wanted experienced candidates to contest them. “Out of respect, you don’t just blow off your colleagues. You say, ‘Okay, I’ll give it due consideration,’” he said.

Decision and Reactions

Issa ultimately opted to stay in his California district, citing his “pretty deep” roots in the state. Asked whether President Trump or White House officials pressured him to remain, Issa said he speaks with the president and other White House figures “pretty regularly,” but that no one issued threats or ultimatums.

Liz Gover, a precinct chair for the Dallas County Republican Party, said she viewed Issa favorably but highlighted that he does not live in Texas and that local Republicans are backing other candidates — she named Republican Darrell Day in the 32nd District. The National Republican Congressional Committee declined to comment for this story.

Issa framed his choice as a win for Republicans in California because it ensures an incumbent will contest a now‑competitive San Diego County seat. His decision does not eliminate opportunities in Texas, however: redistricting plus several retirements have opened paths for new candidates as Texas prepared for its filing deadline.

Broader Implications

Issa also referred to guidance from Republican leaders — including Richard Hudson, chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee — urging incumbents to remain and avoid retirements that could jeopardize the party’s House majority. Looking ahead, regular decennial redistricting following the census remains the standard: the next full round of map drawing is expected for the 2032 election cycle.

Bottom line: Issa explored a high‑profile transfer to Texas but decided his political and personal ties to California made staying the better option. He encouraged fellow Republicans to contest difficult districts rather than relocate or step aside.