Kevin Kiley: CA Rep. Leaves GOP, Runs as Independent | Politics News
Representative Kevin Kiley of California formally announced his departure from the Republican Party on Monday, becoming an independent member of the House of Representatives. The move complicates House Speaker Mike Johnson’s already narrow majority, though Kiley intends to continue caucusing with the GOP for the remainder of the current term.
Kiley addressed the House floor on Thursday, explaining his decision as a reflection of his commitment to independent representation and a desire to move beyond partisan divisions. “This reflects the way I’ve always approached my role as an elected representative — to be an independent voice for the communities that I represent, to hold politicians in both Sacramento and Washington accountable, to work with both sides to find common ground, to answer directly to my constituents, and always put our district first,” he stated.
The shift follows the approval of a fresh congressional map in California, designed to counter gerrymandering efforts in other states, including Texas. Governor Gavin Newsom’s redistricting plan significantly reshaped Kiley’s current 3rd District. Kiley announced earlier this month his intention to run for reelection in the newly drawn 6th District, a seat that leans Democratic, prompting his change in affiliation.
“We require to reorient our politics toward bringing us together as Americans rather than tearing us apart as partisans,” Kiley said. “That means, for example, finding concrete ways to make life more affordable, rather than each side blaming the other for why it isn’t.”
While Kiley will continue to caucus with Republicans to maintain his committee assignments, he was removed from his committee posts on Wednesday, with the expectation of reappointment as an independent. The move leaves Republicans holding 217 seats in the House, compared to 214 Democrats, with three vacancies. Kiley is currently the sole independent member of the House, a position last held by Justin Amash of Michigan, who left the Republican Party in 2019.
According to a statement reported by CBS News, Kiley had a brief discussion with Speaker Johnson over the weekend regarding his plans. He declined to characterize his departure as a falling out with the Republican Party, instead attributing it to “frustration with partisanship itself.”
Kiley’s decision marks the tenth time since 2000 that a member of Congress has changed party affiliation, according to Ballotpedia. He initially announced his intention to run as an independent in the 6th District last Friday, signaling his shift away from the Republican Party.