Top Republican recruit Carl DeMaio announced on Tuesday that he will continue his bid for Congress against freshman Democratic Rep. Scott Peters and will not run in a mayoral special to replace disgraced San Diego Mayor Bob Filner.

Although DeMaio had toyed with a mayoral run after Filner officially resigned following allegations by numerous women of sexual harassment, DeMaio, a gay Republican, said he has received broad support from Washington for his new approach to governing for the GOP.

“Anyone who knows me knows I care more about getting things done, the right things, than any … political office or title,” DeMaio said at a news conference, adding that he felt he can make positive changes in Washington, D.C.

DeMaio ran an unsuccessful mayoral campaign in 2012 against Filner, losing the seat by a slim margin.

DeMaio’s decision to continue his bid for Congress in California’s 52nd District is welcome news for Republicans, who are looking to pick up the seat after losing it in 2012.

At least three House Republican leaders, including House Majority Leader Eric Cantor, have donated to DeMaio’s bid and have hosted fundraisers for him.

Peters, who ousted Republican Rep. Brian P. Bilbray by a slim margin in 2012, is considered one of the most vulnerable Democratic incumbents in 2014. President Barack Obama carried the 52nd District with 52 percent in 2012.

California’s 52nd District is rated a Lean Democrat contest by Rothenberg Political Report/Roll Call.