Tricia Cotham, a former North Carolina state representative, made headlines when she abruptly switched from the Democratic Party to the Republican Party. Cotham held a press conference where she explained the reasons behind her decision. She stated that the Democratic Party had become unrecognizable and was using intimidation tactics to suppress free thinking. Their strategy was to vilify anyone who did not conform to their ideals and cast them aside.
Cotham further claimed that the Democratic Party was afraid of people who thought independently and did not agree with their agenda; they did not like what they could not control. She declared that she would not be controlled by anyone and emphasized the importance of learning everything she could, asking questions, hearing perspectives, and making informed decisions. She clarified that she had the responsibility of being a lawmaker, and she would discharge her duties accordingly.
Cotham went on to accuse her former party adversaries of openly accosting her and sending messages to her children. The final straw was when she was criticized for using the American flag and praying hands emoji on social media, which was deemed insensitive and inappropriate by some members of the Democratic Party.
The ramifications of Cotham’s decision are significant, as the Republicans now have a supermajority in the North Carolina House of Representatives. This majority gives them the power to override any veto issued by the current Democratic Governor, Roy Cooper, as the state Senate is already veto-proof.
Some members of the Democratic Party have expressed their disappointment and dissatisfaction at Cotham’s decision, alleging that it was a betrayal of North Carolinians. They have demanded that Cotham resign immediately. However, given Cotham’s independent streak, it is unlikely that she will be cowed into submission or controlled by anyone.
This is deceit of the highest order. Rep. Cotham’s decision is a betrayal to the people of HD-112 with repercussions not only for her district, but for our entire state.
If she can no longer represent the values her constituents entrusted her to champion, she should resign, now.
— NC Democratic Party (@NCDemParty) April 4, 2023