Joe Walsh, a former Republican congressman, announced on Tuesday that he is now a Democrat, ending his five-year journey as a political independent after leaving the GOP in 2020.
In a statement shared via the Sassal Post, Walsh explained that he switched parties because he views the Republican Party as a threat to democracy and the rule of law. He believes that overcoming the GOP will require a diverse coalition of moderates, progressives, and even conservatives.
“Three words I never thought I’d say: I’m a Democrat,” he declared. Once a Republican House member and presidential candidate, as well as a figure within the Tea Party movement, he has now officially embraced the Democratic Party.
Walsh reiterated a concern that resonates with many: the current state of the political landscape. He remarked, “One of our major parties poses a real threat to democracy and the rule of law. These are unprecedented and dangerous times in America, and I understand that.”
He previously ran against Trump for the GOP nomination in 2020 but dropped out after struggling in the Iowa Caucus. Following this, he became a vocal critic of Trump and supported former President Biden.
In his latest post, Walsh suggests that those who cling to the idea of a third party as a solution are mistaken. “Without freedom, democracy, and the rule of law, America cannot exist. Only the Democrats currently align themselves with these essential American values,” he stated.
He expressed doubt that any third party would emerge to rescue the situation anytime soon. “The Democrats remain the only advocates for democracy, and they represent the best hope,” he added.
While Walsh recognizes some shortcomings within the Democratic Party, he emphasizes that they must succeed to protect democracy and the rule of law. He’s calling for the party to become more inclusive in order to effectively combat Trump’s GOP.
“From my experience as a Republican fighter,” he noted, “the GOP is willing to go to great lengths to win. They’ve long perceived Democrats as weak. If there’s ever been a time when Americans are yearning for Democrats to stand firm, it’s now.”
He continued, “We need this big tent approach to outmaneuver the current Republican party. It should be large enough to accommodate both conservatives like me and progressives.”
Reflecting on his journey, Walsh said he still stands for strong borders and gun rights and is committed to free speech. However, he acknowledges that he’s changed significantly over the years.
“I’ve opened my eyes to perspectives that aren’t necessarily my own,” he shared. “This has allowed me to better comprehend issues like LGBTQ rights, structural racism, empathetic immigration reform, and the critical importance of addressing climate change.”
Walsh highlighted the need for empathy and decency in politics, a stance he believes is not adequately represented by the current Republican Party. “Donald Trump embodies the worst of us, and sadly, many Republicans follow his lead in promoting cruelty and injustice,” he said. “America deserves better than this.”
