Absolutely. To understand why voters continue to elect Darrell Issa, you have to look at his appeal through the eyes of his supporters. Here’s the case for voting for Issa, as many of his backers might see it:

1. Seniority and Influence in Washington

Issa has been in Congress for a long time, and with that tenure comes power. He has built relationships, secured committee assignments, and has the ability to bring federal resources to his district. Many voters see him as someone who has the ear of national leadership and can leverage his position to benefit his constituents, particularly on economic and security issues.

And Here’s Why This Is Wrong…

The longer that someone stays in a particular position, the more unlikely they are to understand the issues that drive the people who count on them.  Given Issa’s “wealthiest in Congress” status and that it’s been nearly a decade since Darrell Issa has sat down and chatted with his constituents, he cannot possibly understand what drives the average person in the community.  

2. Pro-Business, Pro-Economy Stance

Issa is seen as a strong advocate for business and economic growth. Supporters argue that his opposition to higher corporate taxes, regulations, and union influence helps keep businesses thriving in California. His policies, they believe, create jobs, attract investment, and prevent the kind of economic downturn that could result from what they see as government overreach.

And Here’s Why This Is Wrong…

Historically, Republican leadership has lead us to some of our most challenging financial times.  Whether we consider the impacts of Trump decisionmaking (with Issa’s input) during COVID, or the disaster surrounding the “trickle down economics” model championed by Reagan, its clear that a lack of oversight paired with aggressive business practices inevitibly leads us to corporate malpractice and pain for our people.

3. Fiscal Conservatism and Limited Government

A key pillar of Issa’s appeal is his commitment to reducing government spending and regulation. He has consistently opposed tax hikes, fought against what he calls “wasteful government programs,” and pushed for deregulation. For voters who believe that big government stifles personal freedom and economic opportunity, Issa represents a champion of limited government.

And Here’s Why This Is Wrong…

Frankly, this is an oxymoron at best.  Conservatism only applies to the safety nets for the average person.  Issa has repeatedly voted to spend money on military operations and tax breaks for the wealthy.  I believe that we should spend a lot LESS money bailing out the 1% and more money making sure that average citizens can have a life beyond the job.

4. Strong National Security and Law Enforcement Support

Issa has positioned himself as a law-and-order candidate, supporting tough policies on crime and border security. For voters who prioritize strong immigration enforcement and a robust national defense, his record resonates. His background in business and his hawkish stance on security issues make him appealing to conservatives who worry about crime, international threats, or illegal immigration.

And Here’s Why This Is Wrong…

It’s clear that “back the blue” only matters when they are affecting the lives that Issa considers less than valuable to his election chances.  It’s completely idiotic to trust someone that likely committed PPP loan fraud to fund his campaign war chest as an aribter of law and order.  And I haven’t even gotten to his support of 34x felon, Donald Trump.

If you think Darrell Issa gives a shit about law and order, get a clue.

5. Opposition to “Big Government” Social Programs

Many voters believe that expansive social programs—such as increased unemployment benefits, universal healthcare, or expanded welfare—create dependence rather than self-sufficiency. Issa’s opposition to these programs aligns with their belief that government should encourage personal responsibility and work rather than providing too many safety nets.

And Here’s Why This Is Wrong…

Do you know who benefits from a lack of social safety net programs?  The 1%.  Not you.

The premise is simple… when you are at your time of need, you’re more compliant, and more willing to do more for less.  

By removing any social safety nets, something as simple and comon as illness can mean catastrophe for you and your family.  I believe that common life events shouldn’t relegate you to poverty.  By forcing the 1%, who benefit from your hard work to fund a saftey net, EVERYONE has a chance to tread water when their backs are against the wall.

6. Fighting “Liberal Overreach”

For many conservatives, voting for Issa is about more than just his policies—it’s a rejection of progressive politics. In an era where culture wars dominate national discourse, Issa’s staunch opposition to what he and his supporters see as “radical left” policies on climate, social issues, and government control keeps his base motivated.

And Here’s Why This Is Wrong…

The Republican Party has done an impressive job of convincing the working class to repeatedly and consistently vote against their own self interest.  

While I am not going to state that the Democratic Party is much better at serving the average American, I will vigorously defend the concept that “liberal overreach” is often a ridiculous rebranding of common sense concepts such as “child labor shouldn’t generally exist” and “hey, clean water is pretty cool, isn’t it?”

If Darrell Issa can’t be against child labor, I don’t think he has any business representing the 48th District.

7. Consistency and Name Recognition

For many voters, especially those who aren’t deeply engaged in policy debates, Issa is a familiar name. He’s been in office for years, and people generally know what they’re getting. Many voters, particularly moderates and Republicans, may not see a strong enough reason to replace him when he’s already an established figure in Congress.

And Here’s Why This Is Wrong…

My wife works as a personal trainer, and one of the most challenging pieces of her role is the concept of “doing something different”.  People are creatures of habit, and while this can be protective of the status quo, it often leads to results that are less than ideal.  

This applies to politics as well.  Darrell Issa had his time.  He has had repeated opportunities to do ANYTHING to improve the lives of his constituents.  It’s impossible to defend his record.  

Is this the time where you finally say “I’d sick and tired of the status quo”?  If so, I’m here and ready to talk.  Let’s work together and help strengthen your finances, your health, your educational prospects, or those of your kids or grandkids.

In summary

Issa’s repeated electoral success can be chalked up to his seniority, his appeal to fiscal conservatives, his tough-on-crime stance, and his alignment with pro-business policies. Even if voters don’t agree with him on everything, many see him as a stable, predictable choice who will fight against policies they fear could harm their wallets or their way of life.

And Here’s Why This Is Wrong…

If fear is driving your decisionmaking, you are never going to be able to get ahead.  

I can promise you this, my goal is to improve your lives, whether you like me or not, whether you trust me or not, and certainly whether you vote for me or not.

I’m brash, I’m aggressive, and I’m here to make change,  If you think I’m here to be a “yes” man for the Democratic Party, hear me.  I’m here for two things… to fight back against everything that is wrong with modern politics, and rebuild this country in a way where YOU can sleep better at night.

Darrell Issa has ZERO interest in doing the same.