Issa, Kiley Exit Congress, Republicans Face Tough Race

0:00On March 8, two California Republican congressmen dropped major surprises on Friday. 72-year-old Darrell Issa announced he won't seek re-election in the San Diego-based 48th district after 25 years in Congress. Meanwhile, 41-year-old Kevin Kylie said he'll run as an independent in the new 6th district instead of his current third. This comes amid new house maps drawn by state Democrats, which shrink California's Republican delegation from more than a dozen seats down to just. 4 out of 52. The changes turn Issa's district from a solid Republican win into a competitive one, leaning toward Democrats. Political insiders see these moves as signs of frustration and a tough environment. Issa, a wealthy former businessman, called it time for fresh challenges and endorsed San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond to take his place. Kylie cited disgust with extreme partisanship that fueled shutdowns, higher health costs, and redistricting fights. Experts know Issa likely wants to skip a brutal primary and general election battle.

1:03For Kylie, going independent in a district design for a Democrat win is a long shot that can need heavy outside funding, despite his party switch. These shifts underscore deeper woes for Republicans in Congress, for minority status to internal clashes, leaving both parties rethinking strategies as the race heats up.