In a surprising move that’s sending shockwaves through Texas politics, Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson (D) announced a seismic shift in his political allegiance. In an op-ed for the Wall Street Journal, Johnson boldly proclaimed his departure from the Democrat Party, now embracing the Republican Party.
With nine years of dedicated service within the Democrat Party, including time in the Texas legislature, Johnson’s decision to change course has sent a clear message — he believes American cities need Republicans, and Republicans need American cities.
Although Johnson’s position is officially nonpartisan, his decision to switch to the GOP adds Dallas to the list of major Texan cities led by Republican-affiliated mayors, joining Fort Worth in this political sea change.
Explaining his rationale, Johnson cited crucial factors that prompted this historic move. “Law and order” and “fiscal conservatism” are at the heart of his decision. He firmly believes that the Republican Party is better equipped to navigate the challenges facing Dallas, particularly as the city grapples with a surge in violent crime amidst a staffing crisis in the Dallas Police Department following the 2020 George Floyd riots.
Texas is getting more Red every day.
Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson switches to Republican Party.
He’s pro law enforcement & won’t tolerate leftist agendas.
Two of the 10 largest cities in America now have Republican Mayors & they are both in Texas. https://t.co/Qn9SM7UZ1G
— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) September 22, 2023
“I don’t believe I can stay on the sidelines any longer,” Johnson declared. “The future of America’s great urban centers depends on the willingness of the nation’s mayors to champion law and order and practice fiscal conservatism.”
He further emphasized that the inconsistency and poll-driven nature of many Democrats’ commitments to these principles have led him to conclude that the Republican Party embodies a more genuine dedication to these values.
Johnson didn’t hold back in pointing out that Democrat policies have contributed to “disarray” in blue cities nationwide, with alarming spikes in violent crime in places like New York City, Chicago, and Philadelphia.
He criticized local Democrat leaders for neglecting public safety and fiscal restraint and focusing instead on “half-baked government programs” that exacerbate problems like homelessness. Johnson argued that this approach may generate headlines but fails to create safer, stronger, and more vibrant cities.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott enthusiastically welcomed Johnson to the Republican Party, hailing him as pro-law enforcement and intolerant of leftist agendas. Abbott celebrated the growing shift towards conservative values in Texas, with two of the country’s largest cities, Dallas and Fort Worth, now led by Republican mayors.
The Lone Star State continues to turn red, signaling a shift in the political landscape that could have far-reaching implications.
