Politically Speaking: long-time GOP councilmember switches parties

Politically Speaking: long-time GOP councilmember switches parties

He's the longest-serving Republican in any city government within San Diego County. Rather, he was. As of this week, Gary Kendrick has jumped ship and joined the Democratic Party.

El Cajon Councilmember Gary Kendrick explains why he's leaving the Republican Party

Councilmember Gary Kendrick joins the community at a press conference before the council meeting on Jan. 27, 2026.(Elaine Alfaro)Gary Kendrick registered as a Republican for 50 years — and he’s served in public office for more than two decades.But this week, he decided it was time to leave the Republican Party and run for reelection to the El Cajon City Council this fall as a Democrat. Kendrick has received both support and criticism for his dec…