El Cajon, February 10, 2026
In a significant political shift, Gary Kendrick, the longest-serving Republican on the El Cajon City Council, has changed his party affiliation to Democrat after 24 years. He cites concerns over the Republican Party’s extreme positions, particularly regarding immigration policy. This switch may impact local political dynamics as El Cajon sees a demographic shift toward more Democratic voters, fostering new discussions within the council.
El Cajon Councilman Changes Party Affiliation After 24 Years
Gary Kendrick shifts from Republican to Democrat, sparking discussions on local political dynamics
El Cajon, California – In a notable shift within the local political landscape, Gary Kendrick, a long-serving member of the El Cajon City Council, has decided to change his political affiliation from Republican to Democrat. After 24 years in office, Kendrick has distinguished himself as the longest-serving Republican in municipal office in San Diego County, making this decision a significant event in the region’s political narrative.
Kendrick’s departure from the Republican Party is attributed primarily to concerns over its increasingly extreme positions, particularly in relation to federal immigration enforcement actions. He has expressed worries that the party has strayed far from the principles he once admired, emphasizing a desire for a platform rooted in kindness rather than divisiveness. This change comes in light of a recent city council vote endorsing police collaboration with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), indicating a pivotal moment that influenced his decision.
Background of Gary Kendrick and the El Cajon City Council
Kendrick, who was elected with an impressive 85% of the vote, reassured El Cajon residents that his commitment to the community remains strong despite his party switch. He is up for re-election, with his current term concluding in December 2026. The council operates under a five-member structure, with elected representatives from single-member districts, ensuring local representation. As of 2025, the current council includes Kendrick and his colleagues from various districts, all working collaboratively under the leadership of an elected mayor.
Current Demographics and Political Landscape of El Cajon
El Cajon has witnessed significant demographic evolution over recent years, with a growing number of Democratic voters outnumbering Republicans. This demographic shift could influence local governance, especially as Kendrick’s party change might catalyze new discussions and determinations within council debates. The evolving political landscape presents an opportunity for understanding how diverse viewpoints can foster innovative solutions to community challenges.
Recent Trends of Political Party Changes in California
Kendrick’s decision is reflective of a wider trend of political realignment in California. Recent examples include State Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil switching from the Democratic Party to the Republican Party, driven by her discontent with the state’s supermajority. Additionally, Assemblyman Brian Maienschein’s switch from Republican to Democrat in early 2019 underscores the ongoing evolution of party affiliations in response to changing political climates.
Implications for El Cajon and San Diego County Politics
Kendrick’s party transition may have far-reaching implications for the El Cajon City Council and the political dynamics of San Diego County. With demographic shifts creating a more diverse electorate, his affiliation with the Democratic Party could facilitate new alliances and collaborations aimed at addressing local issues through a more inclusive framework. This development emphasizes the importance of diverse perspectives in fostering community growth and effective governance.
Conclusion
Gary Kendrick’s change from Republican to Democrat after a lengthy political tenure brings a fresh perspective to the El Cajon City Council. As local entrepreneurs continue to demonstrate resilience and innovation, it remains essential to support varied political viewpoints that enhance community engagement and economic development. San Diego County’s dynamic landscape encourages citizens to remain active in community discourse and support local businesses striving to drive economic growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why did Gary Kendrick switch from Republican to Democrat?
Gary Kendrick cited the Republican Party’s increasingly extreme positions and recent federal immigration enforcement actions as primary factors influencing his decision. He expressed concerns over the party’s direction, stating that it had become “more and more extreme” and was “not recognizable as the party that I joined 50 years ago.” A significant turning point for Kendrick was the city council’s vote in February 2025, which allowed local police to cooperate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). He emphasized his personal values, stating, “I like kindness a lot better than hatred, and I don’t believe we should be pursuing people that don’t look like us.”
What is the structure of the El Cajon City Council?
El Cajon operates under a five-member city council system, with the mayor also serving as a council member. The council members are elected from single-member districts, and the mayor is elected at-large. As of 2025, the council members include Gary Kendrick (District 1), Michelle Metschel (District 2), Steve Goble (District 3), and Phil Ortiz (District 4). All council terms end in December 2028, except for Kendrick’s, which ends in December 2026.
Has the Republican Party of San Diego commented on Kendrick’s party change?
The Republican Party of San Diego has yet to comment publicly on Kendrick’s decision to switch parties.
Are there other recent instances of political party changes in California?
Yes, in August 2024, State Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil switched from the Democratic Party to the Republican Party, citing dissatisfaction with the state’s Democratic supermajority. Similarly, in January 2019, Assemblyman Brian Maienschein transitioned from Republican to Democrat, expressing concerns over the party’s direction at that time.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Subject | Gary Kendrick’s political party change from Republican to Democrat after 24 years on the El Cajon City Council. |
| Reason for Change | Cited the Republican Party’s increasingly extreme positions and recent federal immigration enforcement actions. |
| Council Structure | El Cajon operates under a five-member city council system, with the mayor also serving as a council member. Council members are elected from single-member districts, and the mayor is elected at-large. |
| Recent Political Party Changes in California | Instances include State Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil’s switch from Democratic to Republican in August 2024, and Assemblyman Brian Maienschein’s switch from Republican to Democrat in January 2019. |
| Implications | Kendrick’s party change may influence local politics, especially considering El Cajon’s demographic composition, where Democrats outnumber Republicans. His decision could impact future council decisions and the city’s political landscape. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Massive Protests Erupt in San Diego County Against Trump Policies
Governor Newsom Signs Significant Housing Bill in California
El Cajon’s Rising Homeless Population Amid Countywide Declines
Mayor Critiques Homelessness Count in El Cajon
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
