Lifelong Democrat and outgoing Texas state Rep. Shawn Thierry announced on Friday that she is switching to the Republican Party. In a statement, Thierry expressed her concerns about the Democratic Party’s shift towards progressive policies that she cannot support in good conscience.
Thierry specifically mentioned two policies that troubled her: promoting sex changes for children during a vulnerable stage of their lives and dismantling Title IX protections for women in sports. She believes these policies go against her values and principles.
The Democratic Party responded to Thierry’s decision by stating that she compromised her Democratic values and betrayed the constituents of House District 146, leading to her dismissal from office. Earlier this year, Thierry lost in the primary election to Lauren Ashely Simmons after aligning herself with Republicans on several bills opposed by the LGBT community.
This is not the first time Thierry has broken ranks with her party. Last year, she voted for a measure that would prohibit gender-altering treatments for minors. During an emotional speech on the House floor, she explained why she chose to side with Republicans on this issue.
Texas Governor Gregg Abbott expressed his pride in having Thierry join the Republican Party. He emphasized that it was not Thierry who abandoned Democrats but rather Democrats who abandoned her.
Thierry’s decision highlights divisions within political parties as politicians grapple with evolving ideologies and changing priorities. It remains to be seen how this switch will impact both parties moving forward.