Former Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard declared on Tuesday that she is joining the Republican Party, referring to it as “the party of the people,” and distancing herself from the Democrats.
Gabbard made her announcement at a rally in North Carolina, where she aimed to bolster support for former President Donald Trump as the election approaches in just 13 days. She joins Trump’s campaign alongside fellow former Democrat Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who commended Trump’s commitment to free speech and individual freedoms.
The former Democrat criticized the current state of the Democratic Party, particularly targeting Vice President Kamala Harris regarding her positions on immigration and military interventions.
“Today’s Democrat Party is completely unrecognizable, which highlights the clear choice we have in this election,” Gabbard stated during the rally in Greensboro. “Kamala Harris represents a party that is anti-freedom, pro-censorship, pro-open borders, and pro-war, all while disregarding the importance of peace.”
Gabbard expressed her admiration for Trump and the Republican Party, reiterating sentiments she shared earlier this year when she endorsed him at the National Guard Association conference.
“My love for our country, and especially for the leadership President Trump has brought to revitalize the Republican Party and make it the party of the people and peace, compels me to stand with you today and announce my affiliation with the Republican Party,” Gabbard said as she stood near Trump.
Having served as a Democrat in Hawaii’s 2nd District from 2013 to 2022, Gabbard left the Democratic Party in 2022 and became an independent before her recent switch.
Trump expressed surprise at Gabbard’s decision but welcomed her into the party. He also took the opportunity to acknowledge Kennedy at the rally, praising his contributions to health issues while noting some policy disagreements.
Gabbard’s party switch comes in the wake of endorsements for Harris from several prominent Republicans, including former Vice President Dick Cheney and his daughter Liz Cheney.