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.

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.