AP -- Minority Republicans in the Maine House have lost a member.
Rep. Jim Campbell of Newfield said Thursday he's withdrawn from the Republican Party and will become the only legislator with no party affiliation. That leaves the House with 95 Democrats, 55 Republicans and one unenrolled or independent member. The Senate also is controlled by Democrats.
"I have been very frustrated with the Republican Party in Maine, and nationally, for their failure to address the health care crisis in a meaningful way," Campbell said.
Campbell said his move was a long time coming.
Politico has the full statement:
This move has been a long time coming for me. I have been very frustrated with the Republican Party in Maine, and nationally, for their failure to address the health care crisis in a meaningful way. Nobody has all the answers, but the Republican Party has none when it comes to health care reform.
This move is about the working people and our seniors who need action. I became a Republican because I believed the party stood for something. I hope to send a message to the Republican Party - and the Democratic Party - that enough is enough; it is time to stop blocking progress in the hope of partisan gain.
To the people of my district who elected me four times, I want to assure them I will continue to stand up and fight for the seniors in our community and for good jobs and opportunities for young people and families. I will continue to speak my mind and tell the truth as I see it to both sides of the aisle, what ever party you are in.