Another Democrat Leaves Party, Joins GOP

Robin Webb talked against HB 470 in the Capitol Annex

Kentucky State Sen. Robin Webb (R-KY) has left the Democratic party on May 30, now affiliating herself with the Republican party. The change occurs as the Democratic Party has struggled to maintain influence in rural areas historically associated with the coal industry. Webb noted a disconnect with Democratic policies that she believes have hindered economic development in the region. Other Democrats like former White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre and Florida State Senator Jason Pizzo have also recently left the Democratic Party. Jean-Pierre is now an independent and Pizzo has no party affiliation.

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Webb said, "First and foremost, I’m a mother, a rancher and a lawyer with deep personal and professional roots in Kentucky’s coal country."

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Webb added, "As the Democratic Party continues its lurch to the left and its hyperfocus on policies that hurt workforce and economic development in my region, I no longer feel it represents my values."

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Webb has been a prominent figure in Kentucky politics since her election to the State House in the 1990s. Webb stated, "It has become untenable and counterproductive to the best interests of my constituents for me to remain a Democrat."

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Webb's departure leaves the Democratic Party without a significant rural voice, further isolating its representation to urban districts. Kentucky Democratic Party Chair Colmon Elridge (D-KY) noted that Webb’s decision aligns her with policies which he believes have threatened healthcare resources for Kentuckians.

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Elridge said, "Senator Webb has chosen to join a political party that is currently working around the clock to take healthcare away from over a million Kentuckians, wipe out our rural hospitals, take food off the table of Kentucky families and take resources away from our public schools."

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Republicans have gained a legislative majority in Kentucky. The party also leads Democrats in statewide voter registration. Webb said, "While it’s cliché, it’s true: I didn’t leave the party — the party left me." She added, “I will continue to be a fearless advocate for rural Kentucky and for the residents of eastern Kentucky who have been so good to me and my family.”

Grace Hall covers U.S. politics & news for content partner Modern Newsstand LLC.