Story perspectives

Rep. Kiley Goes Independent Amid California Redistricting Shift

3/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

Rep. Kevin Kiley (R-Calif.) will run as an independent for California's 6th Congressional District after redistricting made it solidly Democratic.
Kiley has $2 million in campaign funds amid an environment shaped by the unpopularity of the Trump administration.
He says the independent move counters perceived gerrymandering by Gov. Gavin Newsom.
Rep. Darrell Issa will not seek re-election in his newly drawn district and endorses San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond.

History

Historical Context

The Redistricting Reform Act of 2008, known as Proposition 11, established an independent commission to draw California's electoral districts, aiming to reduce partisan gerrymandering. This followed decades of manipulation by the Democratic Party and the failure of previous reform efforts, such as the rejected Proposition 77 in 2005. The act's impact continues to influence electoral fairness and representation in California politics.

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Story summary

Rep. Kevin Kiley (R-Calif.) will run as an independent for California's 6th Congressional District after redistricting made it solidly Democratic.
Kiley has $2 million in campaign funds amid an environment shaped by the unpopularity of the Trump administration.
He says the independent move counters perceived gerrymandering by Gov. Gavin Newsom.
Rep. Darrell Issa will not seek re-election in his newly drawn district and endorses San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond.

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