WASHINGTON, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- Democratic Rep. Ralph Hall, the longest serving member of the Texas congressional delegation, has switched parties and will next run as a Republican.
"I consulted some constituents and most agreed with me," Hall told CNN in a phone interview.
"I have voted with the Republicans most of the time. The country is at war. When the country is at war you need to support the president. Some of my fellow congressman have not been doing that," Hall said.
"I talked with some of my family. Some agreed, some did not. My wife didn't agree. She'd rather I quit than switch parties."
Hall's decision is no surprise to Texas political insiders, CNN said. The congressman's voting record is one of the most conservative in the House.
After Hall's switch, Republicans hold 229 seats in the House, the Democrats 204. There is one Independent and one vacancy, created when Republican Ernie Fletcher resigned last month to become governor of Kentucky.
