The state capitol in Kansas. Photo: Mark Reinstein/Corbis via Getty Images
Three female Republican lawmakers in Kansas have announced they're joining the Democratic Party this month, the Wichita Eagle reports.
Why it matters: State Sens. Dinah Sykes and Barbara Bollier, as well as state Rep. Stephanie Clayton have all decided to switch parties for the same reason — they say the Republican party in Kansas has become too conservative.
What they're saying:
- Clayton cited the party's decision to "scrap the bipartisan education plan" crafted over the last two years as her reason for switching parties.
- Sykes called herself a moderate, and said her district shares her views: "I see the Republican party focusing on issues and approaches that divide our country."
- Bollier highlighted the party's stance on LGBTQ issues as her reason for leaving, saying her moral compass won't let her "be complicit."
The bottom line: Though this is happening on a local level, it highlights the GOP's shortage of women, which could create issues for the party ahead of 2020.