WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Kevin Kiley of California announced Monday that he will formally leave the Republican Party and register as an independent for the remainder of his current term in Congress. Kiley said he will submit a letter to the House clerk immediately to change his party affiliation, becoming the only independent member currently serving in the House.
Kiley said the move reflects frustration with escalating partisan redistricting battles across the country. He argued that gerrymandering in both Republican- and Democratic-led states is intensifying partisan politics and undermining democratic representation.
Despite leaving the Republican Party, Kiley indicated he plans to continue caucusing with Republicans for administrative purposes, allowing him to keep committee assignments. He also said the switch will not automatically change how he votes on legislation, emphasizing that each bill will be evaluated individually.
The decision comes as Kiley prepares to run for reelection as an independent in California’s newly redrawn 6th Congressional District. The new map, approved through a ballot initiative supported by Gov. Gavin Newsom, is expected to give Democrats an advantage in several races.
Kiley currently represents California’s 3rd District but will challenge Democratic Rep. Ami Bera in November. He said that if reelected, he could potentially caucus with either party depending on what he believes best serves his constituents.
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