The lawmaker that left the Missouri House Democratic Caucus this week says he wouldn’t be surprised if he isn’t the last.
Representative Keith English (center) was sworn in on January 7 as a Democrat from Florissant, but has announced today he is switching to an Independent. (photo courtesy; Tim Bommel, Missouri House Communications)
Representative Keith English (Florissant) switched parties this week from Democrat to Independent. He is the second representative to leave the House Democrats since the November election.
English says he thinks there could be more.
“The lack of leadership across the board and willingness to work with the small group of 45 that we had was very apparent,” English accuses. “The progressive side doesn’t want to hear the moderates.”
English says other House Democrats have made statements similar to his own.
“The Democrats are not the Democratic party that we’ve grown up to love. 60’s and 70’s Democrats, we’re not there anymore,” English said.
He says he left the party because he was being punished for voting with Republicans. House Democrats say he had broken caucus rules and was not trustworthy.
Earlier stories:Â
Another lawmaker leaves Missouri House Democrats
Missouri House members react to Keith English’s party switch
