Assemblyman Nathan Fletcher announced Wednesday that he is leaving the Republican Party and will register as an independent.
In a video to supporters, the San Diego mayoral candidate said it's a decision he's "been struggling with for some time."
"In my heart, I believe it's what's right and what best reflects my values," Fletcher said. "I also believe it's what's right for our city moving forward."
Fletcher—who is running in the mayoral race against San Diego Councilman Carl DeMaio, Rep. Bob Filner and District Attorney Bonnie Dumanis—also speaks about his competition in the video.
"I'll be an independent mayor to get things done," he said.
Fletcher has represented the 75th Assembly District—which includes La Jolla, Rancho Bernardo and Poway—since 2008.
Watch the video above.
