Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson announced Friday he is switching his party affiliation to Republican, arguing, “American cities need Republicans—and Republicans need American cities.”

Key Quotes: In an op-ed published in the Wall Street Journal Opinion (Lean Right bias), Johnson stated, “I have no intention of changing my approach to my job. But today I am changing my party affiliation. Next spring, I will be voting in the Republican primary. When my career in elected office ends in 2027 on the inauguration of my successor as mayor, I will leave office as a Republican.” Johnson expressed frustration with the Democratic Caucus, arguing, “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. Our cities desperately need the genuine commitment to these principles (as opposed to the inconsistent, poll-driven commitment of many Democrats) that has long been a defining characteristic of the GOP.”

How the Media Covered It: The Washington Post (Lean Left bias) included quotes from Democratic Party leaders in Texas criticizing Johnson. The Post also noted that the decision comes a week after Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton (R) was acquitted of 16 impeachment charges by the Texas State Senate. Newsweek (Center bias) stated that Johnson’s political career has been “defined by his affiliation with the Democratic Party.” Fox News (Right bias) highlighted reports that Dallas has experienced a “significant decrease in crime” since Johnson took office in 2019.