Multiple political outlets are reporting this afternoon that San Diego Congressman Darrel Issa is taking a look at a safe Republican seat in Texas, should legal challenges to new Prop 50-resulting district lines be unsuccessful.
“I’m not going anywhere. I’ll continue to represent the people of California — regardless of their party or where they live,” Issa said in early November following the passage of Prop 50.
Although Raw Story, Political Wire, and others are reporting on Issa eyeing the move, it does appear the outlets may all be jumping onto each other’s stories, with no apparent real confirmation by anyone. The info may have originated from Jake Sherman at Punchbowl News.
Local Democrats were quick to both respond and strategize, with San Diego Party Chairman Will Rodriguez-Kennedy posting to Facebook…
“Darrell Issa is considering leaving California in order to pursue a seat in Texas. That is as wild as it is cowardly. If he does stay this consideration should bury him. If he leaves let me paint the nightmare scenario. Two Republicans and 10-13 Dems split approximately equal pools of votes. In a jungle primary that means we could get edged out of the general election.
“In that scenario expect Party leaders to presure a number of Democrats to exit the race before filing for the good of the country. Some of our congressional candidates need to do some souls searching. Ego should be put aside for the cause.”
Issa’s prior comment may stand, despite the rumor mill. But this will be interesting to watch.