A long time Democratic state legislator from South Georgia on Monday switched to the majority party.
State Sen. Tim Golden joined the Republican party, further bolstering the party’s lead in the state Senate. Republicans now control 36 seats in the state Senate to the Democrats’ 20, according to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
“With his 20 year record of service and pro-jobs philosophy, Sen. Golden will become an integral part of Republican Party efforts from day one,” Senate Majority Leader Chip Rogers, R-Woodstock, said in a statement.
“The Republican Party is growing in Georgia and Tim Golden’s decision to join us is proof-positive,” state Sen. Bill Cowsert, R-Athens, said in a statement. “Our philosophy of small government, pro-business, and accountability are right in-line with the values of Senator Golden. He is a natural fit with the Georgia Republican Party.”
Golden was re-elected to his 11th term earlier this month. He did not face any opposition.
According to The Associated Press, Golden is the first state senator to switch sides since the Nov. 2 election. Five state representatives have switched from Democrat to Republican, the AP reported.
