Rep. Kevin Kiley announced Friday that he has filed for reelection as an independent candidate rather than as a Republican, citing California's recent redistricting process as the reason for his decision.

Kiley, who currently represents California's 3rd Congressional District, said he will run as an independent in the newly drawn 6th Congressional District. The congressman attributed his party switch to Proposition 50, a redistricting measure that California voters approved last year.

According to Kiley, Proposition 50 enabled California to circumvent its independent redistricting commission and implement what he characterized as a Democratic-friendly House map ahead of the upcoming election cycle.

The redistricting process has significantly altered congressional boundaries throughout California, forcing many incumbent representatives to navigate new political landscapes. Kiley's decision to file as an independent rather than seek the Republican nomination in his new district represents a notable shift for the congressman.

Kiley's move comes as California completes its redistricting process following the 2020 census, with new maps affecting both state and federal legislative districts across the state.