REGION — Supervisor Jim Desmond has his sights set on federal office, launching a campaign on Thursday to challenge Democratic incumbent Rep. Mike Levin for the 49th Congressional District seat in 2026.
Desmond, a Republican representing the North County area on the San Diego County Board of Supervisors for six years, said he is ready to bring a “common sense” approach to Washington, D.C.
The former San Marcos mayor will be termed out in 2026.
“I’m running for Congress because it’s time for change. It’s time for common sense to return to our government. We need leaders who will focus on delivering real solutions on immigration, public safety, and homelessness,” Desmond said in a statement. “With my track record of leadership and proven ability to get results, I’m ready to bring your voice to Washington.”
On the county level, Desmond has been an outspoken advocate for restrictive immigration and crime policies, priorities he said he will continue to hold on the federal level. He also emphasized making everyday life more affordable for Californians and Americans.
On the homelessness front, he has supported the expansion of mental health and substance use treatment facilities and opposed harm reduction programs that distribute clean supplies such as needles and Naloxone to drug users.
“My priorities in Congress will be clear; to create a safe America in California, including a strong military, a secure border and fully funding public safety and first responders. We want to make America and California affordable,” Desmond said. “… I’m going to support mental health treatment. Our state has spent billions on the homelessness issue, and our problems keep getting worse.”
Desmond has a long history in local politics, serving as mayor of San Marcos for 12 years before advancing to the county board. He is a U.S. Navy veteran and had a 34-year career as a Delta Airlines pilot.
The 49th District spans north San Diego County and south Orange County, including the communities of Carlsbad, Oceanside, Vista, Encinitas, San Clemente, Dana Point, Laguna Niguel, and San Juan Capistrano.
Levin (D-Laguna Niguel) has represented the 49th District since 2019 and was re-elected to a third term in November. He has soundly defeated Republicans who have challenged him for the seat in the past, including Matt Gunderson.
Levin has filed to run for re-election in 2026, according to Campaign Manager Adam Berkowitz. Federal law does not set term limits for members of Congress.
As Desmond prepares to be termed out, two North County mayors have already launched campaigns for his seat on the Board of Supervisors, including his San Marcos mayoral successor, Rebecca Jones. Vista Mayor John Franklin is also seeking the seat, with a Democratic candidate yet to appear.
Editor’s note: This story was updated to clarify that Rep. Mike Levin has filed paperwork to run for re-election in 2026.
