Who Is Running in California Congressional District 48th in 2026?
Last updated: March 4, 2026
Darrell Issa
(Incumbent)Economy
HighDarrell Issa supports economic policies aimed at creating opportunities and bringing jobs to California, citing that high taxes and regulations have hindered job growth. He advocates for an "all-of-the-above" energy strategy to foster energy independence, lower costs for consumers, and enhance economic security. Issa has also expressed support for former President Trump's economic agenda.
Immigration
HighRepresentative Darrell Issa advocates for stricter immigration policies, emphasizing border security through measures like building a wall and enhancing interior enforcement. He introduced the Sanctuary City Accountability Act and supports increasing penalties for immigration law violations. Issa seeks a balanced approach that also makes the country accessible to those who can fill critical needs, citing the importance of the rule of law. His stance aligns with an 83% session score from Heritage Action.
Healthcare
HighRepresentative Darrell Issa has voted 17 times to repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and opposed ACA tax credits, citing the need for reforms to drive down costs and address fraud within the program. He also cast a vote on significant Medicaid cuts. He advocates for streamlining the healthcare system with pricing transparency and pursuing legislation to lower prescription drug costs, believing that current regulatory practices hinder innovation.
Democratic Candidate
No Democratic candidate has been confirmed for this race yet. Check back after the primary.
| Issue | Darrell Issa |
|---|---|
| Economy | Darrell Issa supports economic policies aimed at creating opportunities and bringing jobs to California, citing that high taxes and regulations have hindered job growth. He advocates for an "all-of-the-above" energy strategy to foster energy independence, lower costs for consumers, and enhance economic security. Issa has also expressed support for former President Trump's economic agenda. High |
| Immigration | Representative Darrell Issa advocates for stricter immigration policies, emphasizing border security through measures like building a wall and enhancing interior enforcement. He introduced the Sanctuary City Accountability Act and supports increasing penalties for immigration law violations. Issa seeks a balanced approach that also makes the country accessible to those who can fill critical needs, citing the importance of the rule of law. His stance aligns with an 83% session score from Heritage Action. High |
| Healthcare | Representative Darrell Issa has voted 17 times to repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and opposed ACA tax credits, citing the need for reforms to drive down costs and address fraud within the program. He also cast a vote on significant Medicaid cuts. He advocates for streamlining the healthcare system with pricing transparency and pursuing legislation to lower prescription drug costs, believing that current regulatory practices hinder innovation. High |
| Climate & Energy | Darrell Issa supports an "all-of-the-above" energy strategy, prioritizing energy independence and lower costs for consumers. He voted for the "Lower Energy Costs Act" to boost domestic energy production and reduce regulations. He also supported the Unlocking Our Domestic Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) Potential Act of 2024, aiming to ensure affordable and reliable energy solutions by reducing reliance on foreign sources. High |
| Abortion & Reproductive Rights | Representative Darrell Issa maintains a pro-life stance, reflected in his voting record against federal funding for abortions and Planned Parenthood. He explicitly stated he will never support government funding for abortions. Issa also supported the overturning of Roe v. Wade and received an A+ rating from the Susan B. Anthony List as of 2020. Planned Parenthood Action Fund gives him a 0% voting record. High |
| Foreign Policy | Darrell Issa advocates for building a border wall to enhance national safety, stating that a secure border is essential for country safety and enables more effective apprehension of criminals. He also strongly supports military action against Iran, defending recent attacks as necessary to combat terrorism. He suggests confronting Iran directly rather than awaiting a specific trigger. High |
| Education | Darrell Issa supports school choice programs, evidenced by his vote to reauthorize the DC opportunity scholarship program for low-income students. He opposes federal education standards and voted against a $40 billion bill for green public schools. Additionally, he advocates for local control over curriculum and promotes initiatives in agriculture education, STEM, and literacy. High |
| Gun Policy | Darrell Issa has consistently received an 'A' rating and endorsement from the NRA, affirming his support for the Second Amendment. He voted for the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act and the Sportsmen’s Heritage and Recreation Enhancement Act. He also co-introduced the Modern Firearm Safety Act to prevent states from enacting handgun rosters, arguing these restrictions undermine the Second Amendment and limit access to up-to-date safety features. High |
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