By Trendsetter Tribune 
On Monday, March 9, 2026, Representative Kevin Kiley of California announced he is immediately leaving the Republican Party to register as an independent. Kiley has formally requested the Clerk of the House to reflect his status as “no party preference” on the official roster, making him the only independent currently serving in the lower chamber.
The move significantly thins Speaker Mike Johnson’s already razor-thin majority as the House navigates a period of intense hyper-partisanship and legislative gridlock.
Why Kiley is Leaving the GOP
Kiley’s decision follows months of public frustration with both parties and a “tit-for-tat” redistricting war that has upended California’s political map.
- Gerrymandering Frustration: Kiley blasted the recent redistricting efforts spearheaded by Governor Gavin Newsom, calling them a “plague on democracy.” He argued that running as an independent is the only way to “remove partisanship from the equation” after his current district was significantly redrawn to favor Democrats.
- Critique of Leadership: The two-term congressman has been a vocal critic of Speaker Johnson’s handling of recent crises, including the 43-day government shutdown that paralyzed the country in late 2025.
- “Independent Voice”: During a call with reporters, Kiley stated his move was not a personal falling out with colleagues but a response to being “disgusted” by the current state of Washington politics.
Impact on the House Majority
While the move is a symbolic blow to the GOP, Kiley provided some relief to leadership regarding the immediate balance of power:
- Caucusing with Republicans: Kiley confirmed he will continue to caucus with the GOP for the remainder of this term to maintain his committee assignments.
- The New Roster: With Kiley’s switch, the House roster now stands at 217 Republicans, 214 Democrats, and one Independent, with three vacancies.
- Uncertain Vote: Despite caucusing with the GOP, Kiley would not guarantee he would be a reliable vote for Speaker Johnson on procedural matters, essentially making every floor vote a “one-vote margin” game for Republican leadership.
2026 Reelection Campaign
Kiley’s shift is also a strategic move for his survival in the upcoming midterms.
- The New 6th District: Under the new maps, Kiley will run for reelection in California’s 6th Congressional District (Sacramento County) as an independent.
- Tough Battle Ahead: The redrawn district is significantly more “blue” than his current seat. Kiley will likely face fellow incumbent Rep. Ami Bera (D), who is also seeking a seat in the redrawn territory.
The California GOP saw another blow on Friday as veteran Representative Darrell Issa announced his retirement at the end of this term, also citing the “partisan maps” that have made his reelection bid untenable.