Republican activist Bob Watkins has entered the 52nd district GOP primary, hoping to succeed longtime Rep. Duncan Hunter (R), who is retiring to run for president.

Watkins is a former chairman of the San Diego County Lincoln Club, an organization whose various chapters operate as a GOP fundraising powerhouse in the Golden State. Currently, Watkins is a member of the San Diego Regional Airport Authority.

The San Diego County-area district is solid Republican territory, and the winner of the June 3 GOP primary is expected to cruise to victory in November. Also running in the Republican contest are teacher Vickie Butcher; Santee City Councilman Brian Jones; wealthy businessman Ken King; and Hunter’s son, Marine Reservist Duncan D. Hunter.

— David M. Drucker