Originally a Republican, Reilly became an independent in 2021 following the January 6 United States Capitol attack and endorsed the Kamala Harris 2024 presidential campaign, citing concerns about Donald Trump's influence on democracy.
[1] Initially interested in energy policy analysis, his career path shifted due to limited job opportunities in the early 1980s recession.
[1][2] Reilly ran on a platform of "no drama," presenting himself as a low-key, collaborative leader who sought to work with the city council and local stakeholders to address issues facing the community.
In January 2021, Reilly became an independent and publicly disavowed the Republican Party, stating he was "ashamed" of his past affiliation with the GOP and could no longer align with it.
[3] This shift reflected growing dissatisfaction with party leadership, especially around public safety measures and the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.