Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) has stated he would leave the Republican Party and register as an independent if Pennsylvania adopted an open primary system. The four-term congressman, representing one of the state’s most competitive swing districts, made the remarks during an interview with Punchbowl News. Fitzpatrick, who co-chairs the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus, has frequently criticized the two-party system, calling it "incredibly divisive." He cited Pennsylvania’s closed primary system as the primary reason for remaining a Republican, stating he would "100%" switch to independent status if the rules changed.
Fitzpatrick has a mixed legislative record, voting with Democrats on issues like extending Obamacare subsidies while supporting some of President Donald Trump’s policies, such as border security. He has also publicly called on Trump to involve Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Russia-Ukraine peace negotiations, drawing scrutiny over his relationship with Fox News reporter Jacqui Heinrich, his fiancée. The network defended her prior reporting but did not clarify whether she would be recused from ongoing coverage.
The Pennsylvania Republican has been a vocal advocate for non-partisanship, stating he believes in forming coalitions around ideas rather than party lines. His district, which includes suburban Philadelphia’s Bucks County, has historically leaned Democratic in presidential elections, though Trump won the area in 2024. Fitzpatrick is up for reelection in November.