Less than three days after saying he was sticking with state Sen. Jeff Denham (R), Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) switched his endorsement for California’s 19th district race from Denham to former Rep. Richard Pombo (R-Calif.).

In a statement released over the weekend, McCarthy said that “Although I originally endorsed my good friend Jeff Denham immediately upon his announcement that he would run, I have now had time to re-assess that decision with the knowledge of Pombo’s availability and the discussions I have had with my good friend [Rep.] Devin Nunes, who I have fought alongside with to improve the future of our Valley.”

“We have both come to the same conclusion – that Pombo, the former chair of the House Resources Committee, has the best combination of skills, judgment and experience to help us fight the tough battle for water and jobs that must be engaged on behalf of the working families of our valley.”

Nineteenth district Rep. George Radanovich (R-Calif.) announced last month that he was retiring in 2010 and backed Denham as his successor. A number of other GOP members of the delegation endorsed Denham in subsequent days, including McCarthy.