Key takeaways:
- New Jersey State Sen. Samuel Thompson announced he is leaving the Republican Party and plans to seek reelection as a Democrat.
- Thompson’s departure would expand the Democrats’ edge in the state Senate from 24 to 25 seats.
- Thompson has been a vocal supporter of President Trump and his decision to switch parties could have a significant impact on the upcoming election.
New Jersey State Sen. Samuel Thompson, a delegate for Trump in 2016 and 2020, announced on Monday that he is leaving the Republican Party and plans to seek reelection this year as a Democrat. Thompson, 87, said that he was prompted to make the switch after local party leaders questioned his fitness for office because of his age.
Middlesex County Republican Chairman Rob Bengivenga said that although he considered Thompson a friend and mentor and wanted him to be part of the party’s future, leaders decided to support another candidate for state Senate. Thompson said that the decision was “too much” for him and that he felt betrayed by his friends.
Thompson’s departure would expand the Democrats’ edge in the state Senate from 24 to 25 seats in the 40-member chamber. In a statement, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy (D) welcomed Thompson to the party.
Thompson has been a vocal supporter of President Trump, hailing his presidency a “success.” He would have faced a “tough” GOP primary, reported the New Jersey Globe. Thompson’s decision to switch parties is a major shift in the state’s political landscape and could have a significant impact on the upcoming election.
Be First to Comment