South Dakota Rep. Peri Pourier Switches from Democrat to Republican
In a significant shift, South Dakota state Rep. Peri Pourier, representing District 27, has announced her switch from the Democratic Party to the Republican Party. The announcement comes just before a special legislative session focused on a state prison construction plan.
Political Implications and Reactions
Pourier's defection further strengthens the Republican majority in the Legislature, now holding 97 seats compared to the Democrats' eight. This marks the lowest number of Democrats in the Legislature since 1953. House Majority Leader Scott Odenbach welcomed Pourier to the Republican caucus, citing the benefit of her unique perspective.
House Minority Leader Erin Healy expressed hope that Pourier would continue to represent the interests of her constituents. South Dakota Democratic Party Executive Director Dan Ahlers stated he was disappointed by the news, suggesting such switches often involve factors beyond a change in values.
Pourier's Rationale
In a Facebook post, Pourier, an Oglala Lakota tribal member, stated that tribal sovereignty aligns with the Republican Party's tenets of decentralized government, economic prosperity, lower energy costs, self-determination, and public safety. She added that Democratic reforms have often undermined sovereignty. "My decision reflects a strategic recalibration," she said.
"My decision reflects a strategic recalibration — one that strengthens my ability to advocate for our communities and deliver meaningful results."
Past Party Switches in South Dakota
Former Sen. Ryan Maher was the last Democratic lawmaker to switch to the Republican Party in 2011. Other instances include former Sen. Jim Bradford, who switched from Democratic to Republican in 2009 and back to Democratic in 2011, and former Sen. Jenna Netherton, who switched from Independent to Republican in 2013.
