Kiley on leaving Republican Party

California Rep. Kevin Kiley spoke Thursday on the House floor about leaving the Republican Party to become an independent as he faces a tough reelection battle under California's newly drawn congressional map.

"This reflects the way I've always approached my role as an elected representative — to be an independent voice for the communities that I represent, to hold politicians in both Sacramento and Washington accountable, to work with both sides to find common ground, to answer directly to my constituents, and always put our district first," he said in his first floor speech since switching his party affiliation.

Rep. Kiley's current 3rd District was reshaped under Gov. Gavin Newsom's (D-CA) redistricting plan, which California voters approved to counter GOP gerrymandering efforts in other states, notably Texas.

Earlier this month, Rep. Kiley announced he would run for reelection in California's newly drawn 6th District, which now leans blue, prompting his party switch.

"We need to reorient our politics toward bringing us together as Americans rather than tearing us apart as partisans," he said. "That means, for example, finding concrete ways to make life more affordable, rather than each side blaming the other for why it isn't."

Rep. Kiley, who will continue to caucus with Republicans, was formally removed from him committee assignments on Wednesday but is expected to be reappointed as an independent.

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