Millions Spent Against Him. Can This California Republican Win the 48th Congressional District?

With more than $4 million spent opposing San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond, and his opponent Marni von Wilpert labeling him her “MAGA opponent,” Desmond is fighting to prove to voters in California’s 48th Congressional District that he is the right pick.

In an interview with the Daily Signal, Desmond discussed the spending against his candidacy, his record in local government, and what he hopes to accomplish in Washington.

When asked why outside groups have spent millions opposing his candidacy, Desmond pointed to Democrats’ efforts to gain control of the seat.

“The other side really wants to flip this seat.”

“I’m a fairly strong candidate in this district. I’ve been elected six times in this district for 22 years, and I’ve done a lot for the people and live in the district, and my opponent doesn’t even live in the district. She lives in the city of San Diego.”

The Republican candidate also argued that his experience in local government far outweighs his opponent’s, having served as a San Marcos city councilman and mayor and currently serving on the San Diego County Board of Supervisors, where he represents District 5.

Von Wilpert, by contrast, has held just one elected office: San Diego City Councilwoman.

“I think that’s the biggest difference, our track records—I’ve been able to stay successful in the community and deliver goods where my opponent’s never even lived here.”

Desmond also criticized von Wilpert’s record on the San Diego City Council, pointing to the city’s financial challenges.

“Any services she has provided in the city of San Diego have fallen short, and that city is broke. We don’t want that here.”

San Diego has faced significant budget deficits in recent years, with the city looking for ways to address its $118 million dollar structural deficit.

The Daily Signal reached out to von Wilpert for an interview but did not receive a response before publication.

According to an October 17–20 poll conducted by The Tarrance Group, commissioned by Desmond’s campaign, von Wilpert leads Desmond 47% to 44%.

A memo accompanying the poll said Desmond “remains very competitive.”

“If he and his allies have the resources to get his message out and highlight von Wilpert’s radical politics and unethical track record, this continues to be a seat Republicans could carry in November.”

When asked what he would prioritize if elected to Congress, Desmond said he would focus on housing, energy, and infrastructure.

“I’m an engineer. I want to go to Congress and fix things. My opponent is a lawyer, about a third of Congress is made up of lawyers. They’re very good at arguing, but not really good at fixing things.”

Desmond said his ultimate goal is to preserve opportunities for future generations, contrasting his approach with what he described as Democrats’ preference for expanding government.

“I want to make sure this next generation has the same opportunities that I had to achieve the American dream—people the tools they need to be successful as opposed to a growing government, which the other side seems to want to do.”

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