DeMaio Announces 2014 Run in 52nd Congressional District

Updated 10:54 a.m.

Former San Diego City Councilman and mayoral candidate Carl DeMaio on Thursday formally announced his candidacy for the 2014 race for the 52nd Congressional District.

In confirming his long-rumored plans to run for Congress, DeMaio, who is openly gay, called for his party to focus on economic issues rather than lifestyle questions.

"I see myself as a 'new generation Republican' who wants to challenge the party to focus on pocket-book, economic and quality of life issues in a more positive and inclusive way, rather than issues that are frankly none of the government's business in the first place," he said.

In an emailed statement to more than 12,000 supporters, the 38-year-old DeMaio said his work in reforming government must continue.

"Like you, I am concerned about the condition and course of government at all levels and the troubled state of our economy," DeMaio wrote. "Like you, I'm not willing to let our country, state or cities fall further into disrepair without fighting to fix the problems. That's why I have decided to run for Congress -- and I'd like you to be part of our campaign to offer bold reform ideas in an inclusive and fresh way."

The Iowa native who grew up in Orange County hopes to unseat freshman Congressman Scott Peters, D-San Diego, also a former San Diego City Councilman.

DeMaio served one four-year term on the council, beginning in 2008, before running unsuccessfully against Democrat Bob Filner in San Diego's mayoral race last year.

Peters, 54, served two four-year terms on the council from 2000 to 2008. Upon terming out, he served on the Port of San Diego Board of Commissioners.     In a tight race that wasn't decided until about a week after voters went to the polls, Peters edged out Republican Brian Bilbray, R-Solana Beach, for the 52nd Congressional District seat last fall.

The district, which represents mostly coastal and coastal-inland North County, has traditionally always gone to a conservative. But redistricting divided the voting block last year in thirds between Democrats, Republicans and independents, paving the way for a closer race.

In his emailed statement, DeMaio outlined four priorities if he is elected, including balancing the federal budget, making government work again for citizens, revitalizing the economy and imposing accountability and transparency in Congress. On the budget, he said the House and Senate need "some real budget expertise."

Peters has not commented on DeMaio's candidacy.

-City News Service