California Rep. Kevin Kiley quits GOP to run as independent over gerrymandering
California Rep. Kevin Kiley has announced plans to leave the Republican Party and run as an independent in the November election. The move follows his criticism of widespread gerrymandering and partisan gridlock in Congress. Kiley, currently representing the state's 3rd District, has also taken recent votes that break from GOP lines.
Kiley blamed both major parties for what he called an 'epidemic of gerrymandering' across the US. His own district was redrawn in California's recent boundary changes—a process he has strongly opposed. He also pointed to partisanship as the cause of the 2019 government shutdown and rising healthcare costs.
In a break from his party, Kiley recently sided with Democrats to end tariffs on Canada imposed under former President Donald Trump. His decision to drop GOP affiliation comes as California's redistricting, led by Gov. Gavin Newsom, was partly a response to Texas redrawing its own maps mid-decade with Trump's support.
Meanwhile, fellow California Republican Rep. Darrell Issa announced he will not seek reelection in his redrawn district. Issa's exit brings the total number of lawmakers retiring in 2026 to 55, including 34 Republicans and 21 Democrats. Issa has endorsed San Diego Supervisor Jim Desmond as his successor in the 48th Congressional District.
Kiley's shift to independent status will take effect if voters reelect him in November. His departure from the GOP follows a pattern of bipartisan votes and sharp criticism of partisan redistricting. The move could reshape his political standing in a closely watched race.
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