After nearly a week of speculation, Rep. Jeff Van Drew, D-N.J., announced Thursday during an Oval Office meeting with President Trump that he will be joining the Republican party.
The congressman, one of just a few Democrats who voted against impeaching Trump on Wednesday, explained his reason for the party switch.
“This is just a better fit for me,” he said. “There were other times in my life when I thought about this.”
Trump and Van Drew shook hands, with Trump calling him a “tremendous asset to the party,” and telling Van Drew “I’m with you all the way.”
“I’m with you,” Van Drew said in response.
House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., added, “He’s going from the majority to the minority. That doesn’t happen.”
Vice President Pence thanked Van Drew for his “common sense,” saying “your district will be as grateful as we are.” – READ MORE