In a significant move for the Republican Party, California State Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil has switched her party affiliation from Democrat to Republican, citing concerns about the left’s overwhelming influence in the state.
On Thursday, Alvarado-Gil announced her decision to join the GOP, expressing that the current Democratic leadership in California is failing its residents.
“Since my first day in office, I have prioritized the interests of my constituents over any political ideology,” Alvarado-Gil stated. “The status quo under the supermajority Democratic rule in the legislature is simply not working for this state. After deep reflection, I am joining the Senate Republican Caucus and the California Republican Party in their fight to fix California.”
In an interview with FOX LA, Alvarado-Gil voiced her dissatisfaction with the direction of the Democratic Party, arguing that it has veered too far left and no longer aligns with the values it once stood for.
“The Democratic Party of today is not the same party I joined as a new voter,” Alvarado-Gil explained. “The pendulum has swung so far to the left that it has disconnected from the core values of Californians—middle-class values, family values, and our state’s diversity. I can no longer support an ideology that disregards the will of the people.”
Alvarado-Gil’s decision comes amid growing discontent among Californians with the state’s handling of issues like education, crime, and homelessness. A former charter school teacher, Alvarado-Gil has been outspoken about the shortcomings of California’s public education system under Democratic leadership.
“We’ve accepted a public education system where it’s okay if kids don’t learn to read and write by third grade,” she said. “For the past two years, I’ve listened to my district, which is predominantly Republican. I’ve represented the values that matter most to our constituents, regardless of party affiliation.”
In a conversation with conservative commentator Steve Hilton, Alvarado-Gil stated, “It’s time for me to leave behind the Democratic label and join my colleagues in the Republican caucus.”
Her decision was met with praise from fellow Republicans. State Senator Shannon Grove welcomed her to the party, saying, “So excited to welcome my colleague Sen. Alvarado-Gil to the Republican Caucus. Now let’s keep fighting to restore California.”
California Senate Majority Leader Brian W. Jones also commended Alvarado-Gil for her bold move, calling her decision courageous. “It takes courage to stand up to the supermajority in California, and Marie has what it takes. Her record on tackling crime, protecting communities, and prioritizing her constituents speaks for itself,” Jones said on X (formerly Twitter).