AXIOS (Andrew Solender) - Republican Rep. Kevin Kiley files to run for reelection as an independent
Rep. Kevin Kiley (R-Calif.) said Friday he is registering as "no party preference," rather than as a Republican, as he seeks reelection to Congress. Why it matters: The move comes after Kiley's Republican-leaning district was broken apart in mid-decade redistricting, forcing him to run in far more Democratic-leaning territory. - Kiley's announcement sparked considerable confusion among his colleagues, with several lawmakers asking GOP leadership for clarity on whether he will continue to contribute to their slim House majority. - One House Republican, asked if Kiley is staying in the GOP conference, told Axios: "I hope to God he is." - A Kiley spokesperson told Axios it is "not official yet" whether he will leave the party or the…