Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Calif, announced Friday he will retire at the end of the current term, and he is endorsing San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond to succeed him.  

"Today I’m announcing my enthusiastic endorsement of Supervisor Jim Desmond for Congress — to represent California’s new 48th district," Issa told Fox News. "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. He understands this community, was born and raised here, and will make a terrific Congressman."

Issa’s district is one that was redrawn under the state’s Prop 50 last year, in which a majority of California voters voted for the redistricting intended to favor Democrats. 

"This decision has been on my mind for a while and I didn’t make it lightly," Issa said, adding that he had spent 25 years in Congress and 25 years in business. "It’s the right time for a new chapter and new challenges."