Former California Senate Leader Shifts Allegiance to the Republican Party
A prominent ex-leader of California’s Democratic Party publicly declared her departure from the party on Wednesday, expressing that she no longer identifies with its current trajectory. Despite this, Gloria Romero, who previously served as the state Senate majority leader for three years during her more than decade-long tenure in Sacramento, continues to regard some historical Democratic figures—such as former President John F. Kennedy—as her “heroes.”
Reasons Behind Her Departure
Romero voiced significant discontent with her former political home, sharing that she had participated as a delegate in national conventions for notable figures like Jesse Jackson and Barack Obama. She pointed out a troubling trend among Latino communities feeling alienated from the Democratic Party for similar reasons.
“Today marks my farewell—I’ve reached my limit,” remarked Romero during her announcement.
A Growing Movement Among Democrats
“I now join the movement of nearly lifelong Democrats departing the party,” she continued, emphasizing her transition to join Republicans and contribute to revitalizing American values ahead of upcoming elections.
Romero stated that she would not stand idly by while Democrats advance towards what she describes as “authoritarianism” and “censorship.” Drawing on a warning from former President Reagan about fascism potentially emerging under liberalism’s guise, she expressed deep concern about changes in discourse surrounding identity: “As someone who has studied these issues extensively,” said Romero, “I find it alarming when defining womanhood is deemed controversial.”
Stance on Key Issues
Additively pro-choice herself, Romero clarified that aligning with a party which endorses late-term abortion is unacceptable: “I am a mother and refuse to label myself merely as a ‘birthing person’,” highlighting how language reflects broader ideological shifts.
The GOP’s evolving stance also attracted her attention: “While Republicans are promoting peace initiatives,” said Romero critically regarding current policies associated with military actions under Democratic leadership.
Diving Into Pragmatic Policies
Addressing environmental regulations within the Democratic landscape—including those targeting kitchen appliances—she quipped defensively regarding gas stoves: “As proud Latina cooks know well—you can’t successfully toast tortillas over an electric burner.”
A Warm Welcome into GOP Ranks
Diverse Reactions From Both Parties
The reaction among Los Angeles Democrats was dismissive; officials labeled reverberations around Romero’s announcement as outdated news. Mark Gonzalez echoed sentiments within party lines by stating past indiscretions were already known among Republicans.
Contrarily welcoming voices emerged from across aisle lines — notably State Senator Brian W. Jones conveyed gratitude toward Romero’s bravery in stepping away from established loyalty in pursuit of principles over partisanship:
“Her efforts were directed towards serving constituents rather than furthering partisan agendas; it takes genuine courage to break away,” he added while remarking upon shifting dynamics within Californian governance due to rising challenges such as skyrocketing costs and homelessness stemming from ineffective policies across administrations.
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