GOP Lawmaker Leaves Republican Party, Will Serve as Independent

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Rep. Kevin Kiley of California announced on Monday that he is leaving the Republican Party and will serve as an independent in the House of Representatives. Kiley, a two-term congressman, faces a tough reelection battle after the state's congressional boundaries were redrawn, leaving him in a Democratic-leaning district. He said he will still caucus with Republicans to maintain his committee assignments.

Why it matters

Kiley's decision to leave the Republican Party and run as an independent highlights the impact of redistricting on incumbent lawmakers. His move comes as the ongoing battle over congressional maps has left some politicians scrambling to salvage their political careers.

The details

Kiley announced on Friday that he would be running in California's 6th Congressional District, a Democratic-leaning area, without listing a party affiliation next to his name. On Monday, he told reporters that he was officially changing his party registration to independent and would be the sole independent member of the House of Representatives. With Kiley's move, Republicans will have a 217-214 majority in the House, with one independent.

• On Friday, Kiley announced he would be running in a Democratic-leaning district without listing a party affiliation.
• On Monday, Kiley told reporters he was officially changing his party registration to independent.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Kiley's decision to run as an independent in a Democratic-leaning district will be closely watched as he seeks to salvage his political career following the state's redistricting.