House Rep. Darrell has endorsed California Franchise Tax Board Chair Diane Harkey for the 49th district U.S. House seat that he will vacate after 2018.
Harkey’s current tax board district includes Issa’s 49th congressional district. She is the highest-ranking elected Republican in the state of California.
Issa was joined by Congresswoman Mimi Walters in endorsing Harkey for the congressional seat.
“Diane Harkey is the only candidate who has what it takes to win the 49th and provide the common sense, pro-taxpayer representation the people of Orange and San Diego counties need,” said Walters.
“I strongly support Diane Harkey’s candidacy. I know Diane Harkey to be a dedicated public servant and a tenacious candidate. I look forward to working with her,” said Issa.
As Chair of the California Franchise Tax Board, Harkey represents 95 million constituents across several counties, including Orange and San Diego counties. She won election to the seat with more than 61 percent of the vote.
Harkey holds a degree in economics from the University of California, Irvine. She graduated Cum Laude. She spent 30 years of her career in corporate finance and banking before entering public service. She served as a Dana Point City Council member and Mayor before spending six years as a Member of the California State Assembly.
California Republican activists have told Breitbart News that there is widespread support for Harkey’s candidacy, from the grassroots to Republican leadership. More than one of the grassroots Republicans spoke of Harkey’s support for them early on, when they say they were “nobody” in political circles.
House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy called Harkey asking her to run upon news that Issa would not seek re-election in 2018.
Republicans are putting a great deal of faith in Harkey. The 49th district seat is ranked #2 by the Los Angeles Times on its list of “California races that could flip the House” to Democrats.
Follow Michelle Moons on Twitter @MichelleDiana
COMMENTS
Please let us know if you're having issues with commenting.