California Assemblyman Rocky Chavez, R-Oceanside, announced Wednesday that he will run to replace Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Vista, in California’s 49th Congressional District.
Issa announced Wednesday that he will not be seeking reelection in the 49th District, leaving the way open for several Democratic challengers.
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Former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger through his support behind Chavez early Thursday, tweeting “I have faith that he’s the type of leader we need in Congress.”
9 years ago, I had faith in @RockyChavez4CA when I appointed him to our Dept. of Veterans Affairs. Now, I have faith that he's the type of leader we need in Congress. He's a tireless voice for kids & equal education. Rocky puts people over party. I'm proud to endorse him in #CA49
— Arnold (@Schwarzenegger) January 11, 2018
Chavez, a retired Marine Colonel, was first elected to California’s 76th Assembly District in 2012. Prior to that he served on the Oceanside City Council for seven years.
Republican Diane Harkey, the chair of the California State Board of Equalization, has reportedly also announced her intention to run for Issa's seat. Harkey has served as the Mayor of Dana Point and was State Assemblywoman for the 73rd Assembly District from 2008 to 2014.
There are currently four Democratic candidates vying for the 49th district seat: Mike Levin; Doug Applegate, who nearly defeated Isssa in November 2016; Paul Kerr; and Sara Jacobs.
KPBS' Evening Edition anchor Ebone Monet sat down for an interview with Chavez Thursday.
