North Carolina State Lawmaker Switches From Democratic To Republican Party

Ladies and gentlemen, let me introduce myself. I am Trisha Gotham—a single mother of two incredible sons, a devoted teacher, a small business owner, a woman with an unshakable faith, a national championship basketball coach, and a passionate public servant. Today, I stand before you, and there's something new I want to add to that list—Republican. [Applause]

Yes, that's right. I have made the profound decision to change my party affiliation and join the Republican party. This journey has been an enlightening one, and I must say, I've been welcomed with open arms by my new colleagues. To each and every one of you, I am grateful to call you my colleagues.

For as long as I can remember, I've proudly identified as a Democrat. The Democratic party has always aspired to be a big tent, embracing diversity and inclusivity. However, the modern-day Democratic party has transformed into something unrecognizable to me, and I know I'm not alone in feeling this way.

A Shift in Values

I want to make one thing clear—I'm not a politician. I've never been one, and I don't intend to become one. But I remain a public servant, dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of the people I serve. After careful reflection, I realized that the party which aligns most closely with my values, principles, and the best interests of North Carolina is the Republican party.

This decision hasn't been made lightly; it has been a process of soul-searching and self-discovery. I stand before you today with conviction, knowing that I'm making the right choice. It's not about switching sides; it's about standing up for what I believe in and joining a party that resonates with my vision for a better future.

A New Beginning

I stand here with a profound sense of honor and gratitude. The journey I've embarked upon has been a transformative one, and I couldn't be happier to be part of the Republican party. This isn't just a change in my political affiliation; it's a new beginning, a fresh start, and an opportunity to contribute to the betterment of our community and our state.

In conclusion, I want to express my sincere thanks to all of you for being a part of this pivotal moment in my life. Joining the Republican party is a testament to the belief that we can all find common ground, build bridges, and work together for the greater good. It's an honor to be here today, and I thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your support and encouragement.

And to all our viewers, thank you for watching our YouTube channel and for following today's top stories and breaking news. Stay informed by downloading the NBC News app. Together, we can make a positive impact on our world, and I am excited about the journey that lies ahead. 🌟🇺🇸