In yet another attempt to distract from his failure to represent the people of California’s 48th District, Darrell Issa recently pulled a stunt at a McDonald’s. What was touted as an opportunity for him to “serve the people” quickly turned into yet another example of his unwillingness to confront the real issues facing his constituents.

Issa, clearly more interested in photo ops than in actual service, announced plans to visit a McDonald’s in San Marcos—a location outside of his district—to offer “Freedom Fries” to those who showed up. But this wasn’t about serving anyone—it was about using a publicity stunt to score a few quick points without having to engage with the community on the problems that really matter.

A True Coward’s Move

The first major red flag? Issa didn’t even have the decency to show up during the scheduled time. Instead, he waited until the protesters—who were rightfully demanding a real town hall and answers on issues like Social Security and healthcare—had dispersed before making his appearance. So much for listening to his constituents. It wasn’t just a missed opportunity to connect with the people who elected him; it was a clear message that Issa could give a damn less about community he claims to serve.

The Economic Struggles of CA-48

This stunt was supposed to be about “serving the people,” but it ended up doing exactly nothing to help the families struggling in his district. California’s 48th is home to hardworking families who are facing real economic difficulties. Families in cities like El Cajon, Escondido, and Ramona are grappling with skyrocketing rent, rising healthcare costs, and job insecurity. Instead of rolling up his sleeves and addressing these challenges, Issa chose to hold a meaningless publicity stunt that benefited no one but the local McDonald’s franchisee in a safer red area outside his own district.

While Issa plays political games, families in his district are forced to decide between paying rent and putting food on the table. His focus should be on pushing for policies that will provide relief to working families, but instead, he’s playing fast and loose with their suffering.

Where Was the Help for His District?

Here’s the harsh reality: this stunt did nothing to address the economic struggles facing his constituents. Instead of hawking FRENCH fries (As an aside, are we back in 2004 again?  How out of touch is this fucking guy?) affordable healthcare, better job opportunities, and a tax policy that doesn’t just line the pockets of the rich. Instead of showing up to work for the people, Issa chose a lazy photo op—one that did nothing but create a distraction from the real, pressing issues in his district.

Issa’s refusal to face the people who are struggling the most and his choice to sidestep his responsibilities in favor of a fast-food photo op are a cowardly display of his priorities. This isn’t about serving anyone—it’s about avoiding the tough questions, staying out of the spotlight when it counts, and leaving his constituents to suffer in silence.

Issa’s Time is Up

It’s clear that Darrell Issa has no interest in serving the people of California’s 48th District. The stunt at McDonald’s, his refusal to hold a real town hall, and his complete disregard for the economic difficulties that so many people face—this is the legacy of a man who has been in power for far too long.

We deserve better than this. The people of this district are stronger than his weak political tricks, and it’s time for Issa to be held accountable for his inaction. The real work of leadership is listening to your constituents, showing up when it matters, and standing up for those who need help the most. Issa has failed on all counts.

It’s time to take this district back—and it’s time to retire Issa once and for all.