Biography

Darrell Edward Issa, born on November 1, 1953, in Cleveland, Ohio, is an American businessman and politician serving as the U.S. Representative for California's 48th Congressional District. The district encompasses central and eastern parts of San Diego County and a portion of Riverside County, including communities such as Fallbrook, Escondido, and Temecula. A member of the Republican Party, Issa has been a prominent figure in Congress, known for his leadership roles and advocacy for limited government and fiscal responsibility.

Education and Military Service

• Education: Issa earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business from Siena Heights University in Adrian, Michigan.

• Military Service: Enlisting in the U.S. Army during his senior year of high school, Issa served as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal technician. He received an ROTC scholarship and, upon graduation, was commissioned as an Army officer, ultimately achieving the rank of captain. He completed his active-duty military service in 1980.

Business Career

• Directed Electronics: After his military service, Issa founded Directed Electronics, Inc., a California-based electronics company that became the nation's largest manufacturer of vehicle anti-theft and auto security devices. In 1994, he was named Entrepreneur of the Year.

Political Experience

• U.S. House of Representatives:

  • Elected in 2000, Issa has served multiple terms representing various California districts, including the 48th, 49th, and 50th.
  • From 2011 to 2015, he chaired the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, overseeing federal government operations.
  • Currently, he is a senior member of the House Judiciary Committee and the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

• Legislative Initiatives:

  • Issa has been a strong advocate for intellectual property rights, holding 37 patents himself.
  • He has led efforts to combat human trafficking along the U.S. border, resulting in tougher laws and more consistent enforcement.
  • In 2008, he opposed the Troubled Asset Relief Program , voting against government bailouts during the financial crisis.

Throughout his career, Issa has been recognized for his commitment to transparency, accountability, and promoting a limited government that serves the interests of the American people.