Rep. Kevin Kiley Announces Independent Bid for Reelection in California

Rep. Kevin Kiley (R-Calif.) announced Friday he is registering as “no party preference” as he seeks reelection to Congress. The move comes after California’s redistricting process significantly altered his district, placing him in a more Democratic-leaning area.

Redistricting and the Shift to Independent Status

Kiley’s decision stems from the redrawing of congressional boundaries in California, a response to a similar action taken in Texas with the backing of former President Donald Trump . California Governor Gavin Newsom stated his state’s efforts were a direct counter to Texas’s attempt to create more favorable seats for Republicans.

The redistricting process effectively removed Kiley from his existing district, forcing him to compete in a new district with a more Democratic electorate. In response, Kiley filed for reelection as “No Party Preference,” stating, “There’s a way we can fight back and protect our democracy from his partisan games: by removing partisanship from the equation.”

Frustration with Partisanship

Kiley expressed frustration with the hyper-partisanship in Congress, citing a recent government shutdown, rising healthcare costs, and the redistricting battles as examples. “It is no secret I’ve been frustrated, at times disgusted, by the hyper-partisanship in Congress,” Kiley said in a statement. He believes both parties are “complicit” in the practice of gerrymandering.

Impact on the Republican Conference

Kiley’s announcement has created uncertainty among his Republican colleagues, with some questioning whether he will continue to support the party’s slim majority in the House. One House Republican expressed hope that Kiley would remain in the GOP conference . A spokesperson for Kiley indicated that his continued involvement with the party or conference is “not official yet.”

Financial Standing and Competition

Despite running as an independent, Kiley holds a significant fundraising advantage over his rivals. As of the end of 2025, he had raised nearly $2.1 million, compared to $380,000 for Democrat Thien Ho and $320,000 for Democrat Richard Pan. He is facing a competitive field in California’s 6th Congressional District.

Independent Trend in U.S. Senate Races

Kiley’s decision to run as an independent aligns with a growing trend in U.S. Senate races. Candidates like Evan McMullin in Utah (2022) and Dan Osborn in Nebraska (2024) have also pursued independent campaigns, often in states with challenging political landscapes.