Shake Up In Democratic Party As Rep. Parker Griffith Plans To Switch Parties

There is a shake up in the Democratic Party as it is being reported that freshman Rep.Parker Griffith of Alabama is scheduled to announce he is switching parties at a 1 pm news conference. Griffith is currently a Democrat.

Griffith has a press conference scheduled for 1 pm in northern Alabama. This is the district he represents. At the press conference, Griffith is expected to switch from the Democratic Party to the Republican Party.

This switch comes at a crucial time for the health care reform vote. Griffith has voted against the Democratic Party on all major domestic issues, including health care.

Griffith is a Radiation Oncologist and has been critical of the Democratic health care plan. He is considered to be one of the most conservative Democrats on the hill.

Griffith reportedly informed Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi this morning of his decision. Griffith has made it clear in the past that he does not care for Pelosi. He has stated he would not vote for her to remain as the House Speaker.

Griffith won his Congressional seat by a slim margin in 2008. Just 51% over 48% for Republican Wayne Parker. No Republican has ever been elected to that seat.

All political eyes and ears will be listening to Rep Parker Griffith's words at 1 this afternoon. His switching to the Republican Party from the Democratic Party impact on health care reform is still to be seen.