Kentucky Senator Robin Webb Switches from Democrat to Republican Party

FRANKFORT, Ky. — Longtime Democratic state Sen. Robin Webb of Grayson announced on Friday that she is switching her party affiliation to the Republican Party. Webb’s decision symbolizes a growing trend in Kentucky politics and increases the Republican majority in the state Senate.

Webb, who was first elected to the Kentucky House in 1998, said her departure from the Democratic Party stems from a feeling that it no longer aligns with her values. “As the Democratic Party continues its lurch to the left and its hyperfocus on policies that hurt workforce and economic development in my region, I no longer feel it represents my values,” she said in a statement.

Her switch adds to the Republican supermajority in the state legislature, where GOP members will now hold 32 seats in the Senate compared to only six for Democrats. This shift is concerning for Kentucky Democrats, who have historically held a strong position in rural areas due to unions and the coal industry.

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear acknowledged the challenges ahead, stating he would consider a run for president in 2028 while also needing to mobilize his party for the upcoming midterms in 2026. Republican Party of Kentucky Chairman Robert Benvenuti welcomed Webb, noting that her decision reflects broader dissatisfaction among rural voters with the Democratic Party.

However, Kentucky Democratic Party Chair Colmon Elridge criticized Webb’s switch, arguing she has aligned with a party that threatens healthcare access and resources for Kentucky families. “If those are her priorities, then we agree: she isn’t a Democrat,” Elridge said.

Webb emphasized her commitment to serve her constituents regardless of her party affiliation, asserting, “The only difference today is the letter next to my name.” As Kentucky continues to see a shift toward Republican dominance, Webb’s party switch underscores a changing political landscape.