California Congressman Kevin Kiley announced that he will leave the Republican Party to officially register as an independent legislator in the US House of Representatives, a decision that could complicate the fragile Republican majority in Congress.

Kiley, who represents District 3 from California, requested the House Clerk to amend his party affiliation on the official list of the legislative body. Although he will register as an independent, the legislator assured that he will continue to participate in Republican caucus meetings and maintain his committee assignments for the remainder of his term. “I will be the only independent member of the House of Representatives,” Kiley stated, confirming his decision to reporters in Washington. The legislator's departure reduces the majority held by President Donald Trump's party in the House. Following the change, the balance of power is now 217 Republicans, 214 Democrats, one independent, and three vacant seats—a minimal difference that could generate greater tension in key votes. Electoral redrawing changes the political landscape. Kiley's announcement comes amid a complex electoral scenario stemming from the recent redrawing of congressional districts in California. The legislator faces a tough reelection race after new district boundaries significantly altered the political makeup of his district. The congressman had already announced he will run for California's 6th District in the upcoming elections, a Democratic-leaning district located in the Sacramento region. He also plans to run as a non-partisan candidate. The redistricting in California was approved by voters last year as part of a political response to similar changes in Texas.where Republican legislators promoted an electoral redistricting that favored their party.

The so-called “redistricting war” between Democrats and Republicans has altered the political landscape in several states and left numerous legislators in districts less favorable to their reelection aspirations.

In that context, Kiley evaluated different alternatives, including competing against fellow Republican Tom McClintock in a conservative district. However, he ultimately decided to run in a Democratic-majority area, a strategy that led him to run as an independent.

Kiley’s change also comes at a time of uncertainty within the Republican Party, where more than a dozen legislators have announced they will not seek reelection in 2026.

Among them is Congressman Tony Gonzales, who recently confirmed he will leave his seat after becoming embroiled in a personal controversy.

With Congress deeply divided, Kiley's move toward independence could have a significant political impact in the coming months, especially in close votes that will define the legislative agenda in Washington.