Marine Capt. Duncan D. Hunter (R) has returned from combat duty in Afghanistan and is now campaigning full time for the 52nd district seat held by his father, Rep. Duncan Hunter (R), his campaign announced this week.

However, the younger Hunter faces stiff competition for the solidly Republican suburban San Diego seat, which his father is vacating to run for president.

Also running in the GOP primary are Santee City Councilman Brian Jones, wealthy businessman Ken King and San Diego County Board of Education President Bob Watkins.

The younger Hunter, who is a Marine reservist, had been campaigning in absentia and relying on surrogates such as his wife, Margaret, since being called up to active duty.

— David M. Drucker