California rep. leaves GOP to become an independent, complicating majority

CBS News
March 9, 2026
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2 min read

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The Bottom Line

A California Republican representative left the GOP to become an independent, narrowing the party's House majority.

How This Affects You

This shift could impact legislative outcomes, potentially affecting federal funding or policy decisions that influence your daily life.

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California Representative Kevin Kiley announced Monday his immediate departure from the Republican Party, opting instead to register as an independent. This decision reduces the Republican caucus by one member, further narrowing the party's slim majority in the House of Representatives. Kiley's move introduces additional complexity for the House leadership as it navigates legislative priorities. The shift could impact future votes on key legislation, requiring Republican leadership to seek broader bipartisan consensus. This development alters the political landscape within the House, potentially influencing the balance of power.

What's Being Done

California Representative Kevin Kiley announced his departure from the Republican Party to become an independent.

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