Longtime El Cajon City Councilmember Gary Kendrick shocked many by announcing his departure from the Republican Party on February 9, 2026. Having served as the longest-tenured Republican city council member in San Diego County for 24 years, Kendrick’s switch to the Democratic Party marks a significant turning point in both his political career and the local political landscape.
Kendrick’s justification for this move centers on his perception of the Republican Party’s shift toward what he calls “far-right radicals.” He argues that the party has adopted “fear-driven” ideologies that betray immigrant communities and embrace extreme immigration enforcement measures. Kendrick stated, “As the longest-serving Republican in municipal office in San Diego County, I cannot ignore the Republican Party’s betrayal of our immigrant community.” This declaration underscores a feeling of disillusionment that has been brewing among constituents regarding the direction of the GOP.
His switch isn’t just a personal shift; he aims to run for re-election as a Democrat, becoming the only Democratic member on the El Cajon City Council. Kendrick framed his motives in stark, moral terms: “Moments of consequence call for clarity and action.” This phrase encapsulates the urgency he feels in addressing what he views as pressing concerns for his community. He believes he is stepping into a fight to safeguard El Cajon, insisting on restoring a sense of safety and normalcy in the lives of its residents. Kendrick declared, “Together, we will restore El Cajon as a city where children walk to school without fear, where mothers seek medical care without terror, and where every family can call the police when they need help.”
Kendrick’s bold move prompted reactions from local leaders. El Cajon Mayor Bill Wells described the city’s political landscape transformation and anticipated a Democratic shift similar to what happened in La Mesa. Wells emphasized the cooperative stance that El Cajon has adopted regarding ICE enforcement, suggesting that such a shift could bring about more favorable outcomes for immigrant residents compared to cities that take a stricter approach.
The local Democratic Party quickly embraced Kendrick’s decision, framing it as part of a broader narrative about inclusion and progress. They portrayed his change of heart as a moral choice—the right response to what they describe as the Republican Party’s increasing hostility. The San Diego Democratic Party’s congratulatory message noted, “Our Party is a coalition made up of people from all walks of life,” positioning Kendrick’s transition as a natural step toward justice and opportunity for all.
Kendrick’s change reflects a wider pattern of political realignment across the country, especially in areas with diverse populations. His decision to renounce his 50-year affiliation with the GOP is not taken lightly, as he declared, “One thing has become clear to me. The Republican Party is beyond redemption.” This resonates with many who have felt a growing rift between traditional conservative values and the party’s evolving stance on social issues.
The reactions to Kendrick’s announcement will undoubtedly shape the dynamics in El Cajon as residents navigate this new political terrain. His departure from the Republican Party serves both as a signal to other like-minded individuals and a challenge to the GOP’s direction. As Kendrick positions himself under the Democratic banner, the impact of his loyalty shift on local politics remains to be seen, but it is clear that it has already initiated discussions about identity, values, and community within El Cajon and beyond.
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