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West Sacramento Today
By the People, for the People
Ex-GOP Rep. Kiley Ditches Party to Run as Independent
Longtime California conservative cites 'extreme hyperpartisanship' as reason for leaving Republican Party
Published on Mar. 9, 2026
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Rep. Kevin Kiley, a longtime California Republican, announced he is leaving the GOP and running for reelection as an independent. Kiley cited 'extreme hyperpartisanship' as the reason for his decision, saying he will continue to caucus with Republicans but wants to be an 'independent voice.' Kiley is facing a tough reelection battle after redistricting gave Democrats an 8-point advantage in his current district, leading him to run in a new district.
Why it matters
Kiley's move to leave the Republican Party is notable, as he was previously seen as a rising star in the California GOP. His decision highlights the growing divisions within the Republican Party and the challenges facing conservatives in the increasingly Democratic state of California.
The details
Kiley said he made the decision to leave the Republican Party without consulting party leadership, including House GOP Leader Mike Johnson. He will continue to caucus with Republicans but wants to be an 'independent voice.' Kiley is facing a tough reelection battle after redistricting gave Democrats an advantage in his current district, leading him to run in a new district against a crowded field of Democratic candidates.
- Kiley announced his decision to leave the Republican Party on Monday, March 9, 2026.
The players
Kevin Kiley
A longtime Republican congressman from California who is now running for reelection as an independent.
Mike Johnson
The House GOP Leader, whom Kiley said he did not consult before leaving the Republican Party.
Gavin Newsom
The Democratic governor of California, whose Prop. 50 led to the redistricting that is forcing Kiley to run in a new district.
Richard Pan
A pediatrician who is one of the Democratic candidates Kiley is competing against in the new district.
Thien Ho
The Sacramento County District Attorney, who is also running as a Democrat against Kiley.
What they’re saying
“I think the extreme hyper-partisanship we have here is a big problem … it manifested itself in the longest shutdown in history.”
— Kevin Kiley, Congressman (nypost.com)
“I'll be an independent voice.”
— Kevin Kiley, Congressman (nypost.com)
What’s next
Kiley will face a crowded field of Democratic candidates in the new CA-06 district, including pediatrician Richard Pan and Sacramento County District Attorney Thien Ho. The outcome of the race could have implications for the balance of power in the House of Representatives.
The takeaway
Kiley's decision to leave the Republican Party and run as an independent highlights the growing divisions within the GOP, particularly in California. His move could appeal to some moderate voters, but it remains to be seen whether it will be enough to overcome the Democratic advantage in the redrawn district.
