New Orleans
Rep. Rodney Alexander switched parties this week, from Democrat to Republican, complicating Democratic efforts to regain control of the House of Representatives. Republicans now have 229 House members; Democrats have 205, and need to pick up 12 seats to reclaim the majority. Alexander had denied rumors of his intentions, insisting until early last week that he would remain a Democrat. Then, he said, “I just decided it would be best for me to switch.” Alexander announced his move hours before the deadline to qualify for the Nov. 2 ballot, making it impossible for a new Democratic candidate to challenge him. Democrats called Alexander a “turncoat” and a “coward,” and said Republicans were welcome to him.
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