Dale Girard, the mayor of Claremont and a state representative in New Hampshire, has announced his decision to leave the Democratic Party and register as a Republican.
In a Facebook update, Girard shared, “This morning, I went to Claremont City Hall and officially changed my party affiliation to the Republican Party.” He emphasized that this change comes after careful consideration and is not due to conflicts with Democratic leadership.
Girard expressed that his evolving personal beliefs have led him away from the Democratic Party. He clarified, “This is not a reflection of any issue I have with Democratic Party leadership. During my service in Concord, I realized my ideologies did not align with the party as I once felt.”
He believes this switch accurately represents his voting record, noting he has often been labeled a “Blue Dog Democrat,” a term that once held greater relevance. He remarked, “My voting record over the past two years frequently aligns more closely with Republican viewpoints, and this change reflects that truth.”
In assuring constituents, Girard stated that the change in party affiliation will not modify his conduct in office, emphasizing, “Changing my party affiliation does not change who I am. My dedication remains the same: to serve the best interests of Claremont, Croydon, and New Hampshire.”
He reiterated that his role as mayor remains nonpartisan, indicating that he will carry this new affiliation into the upcoming election cycle.
Girard concluded with an invitation for dialogue, stating he looks forward to running as a Republican when the election cycle opens in early June.
This announcement has been met with enthusiasm from Republicans, with graphics celebrating the change as a “REPUBLICAN FLIP,” indicating a growing trend of moderates reassessing their political affiliations.
Republicans in New Hampshire view this event as part of a larger trend as moderates distance themselves from a Democratic base increasingly aligned with activist agendas.
For Girard, the change is about aligning himself with a party that reflects his priorities, not altering his commitments to his constituents.
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