Biography & Early Wealth Journey

Darrell Issa

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One of Directed Electronics' signature anti-theft system was called the Viper car alarm. With Viper, when someone got too close, a speaker would play the words "Protected by Viper. Stand back" or "Please step away from the car." Darrell himself provided his own voice for the recording:

In 1989, the company produced $14 million in revenue. Within a decade, it had grown into one of the largest aftermarket makers of electronic automotive accessories in the US. Darrell divested his stake in the company when he was elected to Congress in 1998. According to his most recent Congressional asset disclosure statement, he is worth $460 million.

Primary Income Streams & Multi-Million Contracts

So, if Darrell was a member of China's Congress, how would his $460 million net worth stack up? Would he be the #1 richest member of Congress? Nope. Top 5? Nope. Top 20? Nope. Top 50? Nope.

Try 166th.

Recently, a Shanghai-based news agency called the Hurun Report, found that out of China's 1,271 richest citizens, roughly 203 are members of the national Parliament. These 203 people control approximately $463.8 billion in wealth. The report found that 18 members of China's National People's Congress have a net worth greater than the "combined wealth of all 535 members of US congress plus the nine members of ths Supreme Court and President's cabinet."

Wow.

Real Estate, Luxury Assets & Personal Investments

And the reality is, the Hurun Report might actually be a low estimation. Unlike American politicians, Chinese politicians are not required to disclose their assets every year. Real estate ownership in China is also frequently shrouded in secrecy. As we have revealed in a number of previous articles, Chinese corruption pretty much never ceases to amaze.