Staff Reports
A seismic shift is rippling through California’s political landscape, as former Democratic Senate leader Gloria Romero has officially jumped ship to join the Republican Party. Romero, who previously held the coveted position of Democratic majority leader in the California Senate, made her announcement while flanked by prominent GOP figures, including the California GOP chair and Congressman Kevin Kiley. All of this should make Democrats sit up and take notice, especially given that she plans to cast her vote for Donald Trump come November.
Romero’s departure is a clear signal of discontent within the ranks of California Democrats. For years, she championed policies that she believed aligned with the party’s values, only to find herself disillusioned by its current trajectory. This is not merely a personal decision; it represents the broader frustrations expressed by many who feel sidelined by the party’s radical leftward shift. Recent events, particularly Democrats’ inability to deliver on promises like reparations, have left key constituencies unsettled, prompting speculation that many may opt to stay home during the 2024 election.
So proud to welcome my friend, former Senate Majority Leader @GloriaJRomero to the Republican Party today!
We have been partners through @GoldenTogether and now we will be working together for the California Revolution ✊☀️ pic.twitter.com/JkolYqR2yX
— steve hilton (@SteveHiltonx) September 5, 2024
Previously, Romero endorsed Republican candidate Larry Elder during the California gubernatorial recall election—a move that hinted at her growing dissatisfaction with her former party. She boldly stated that she no longer recognizes the Democratic Party, which she once vigorously supported, and can no longer associate with its evolving agenda. Her transformation is emblematic of a growing trend among former Democrats who are abandoning the party in droves, seeking refuge in a Republican Party that claims to represent the working class and a “big tent” approach.
The Democrat Party may be downplaying the significance of Romero’s exit, but this is a miscalculation on their part. As a prominent Latina figure who previously served at the top levels of the California legislature, Romero’s switch is a major loss for Democrats who have relied on diverse representation to appeal to Hispanic voters. Public sentiment among these voters is shifting, and with voices like Romero standing against the weak leadership exemplified by figures like Kamala Harris and Gavin Newsom, the Democrats may find their grip on the Latino vote slipping.
Today I joined Gloria Romero, the former Democrat Majority Leader of the California State Senate, for an important announcement. She is joining the Republican Party.
A coalition for common sense is emerging in California.
— Kevin Kiley (@KevinKileyCA) September 4, 2024
Matters aren’t improving for Democrats, as Governor Newsom continues to grapple with his own faltering position. His recent attempts to rally his party around issues such as oil prices have been met with resistance, indicating that even his allies are growing weary of his leadership. The divide among Democrats exposes a party in turmoil, one that is showing more than just cracks; it’s verging on collapse as key voices like Romero abandon the sinking ship.
With Gustavo Newsom’s desperate attempts to reassert control over the party proving futile, the future of California’s Democratic leadership appears bleak. As the state gears up for the upcoming election, the once-solid Democratic stronghold faces unprecedented challenges that could allow conservative candidates to make significant gains. The time has come for voters to recognize that change is in the air, and the Republican Party is poised to capitalize on the shifting tides.
