Meredith Rep. Matt Coker changed his registration from Democrat to Republican, adding to the narrow House GOP majority, NH Journal reported. The first-term lawmaker then cast a deciding vote on an Education Freedom Account expansion the same day.
Coker explained the move in his own words, according to NH Journal.
“After extensive reflection and deliberation, I’ve made the decision to change my party affiliation from Democrat to Republican to better align my party with my core values,” Matt Coker, a first-term Meredith representative, wrote on X/Twitter.
NH Journal
He framed the switch as a recognition of where he belonged in the chamber.
“As I reflect on the first half of my term, it is abundantly clear to me my proper place in this body is on the center-right side of the aisle.”
NH Journal
The move came as House Republicans were already feeling a shift in momentum after recent special-election wins.
Coker’s move adds to the sense of momentum for House Republicans, who won two special elections in Coos County last month.
NH Journal
House Majority Leader Jason Osborne welcomed the new member to the caucus. As quoted by Jason Osborne:
Rep. Coker’s decision to join our ranks speaks volumes about his dedication to serving the people of New Hampshire with integrity and conviction,
NH Journal
The timing proved consequential for the GOP’s education agenda, NH Journal noted, as Coker provided the margin on a key vote.
Coker cast the deciding vote on the only expansion effort that passed, raising the income limit to 500 percent of the federal poverty limit. The bill was approved 190-189 Thursday afternoon.
NH Journal
NHGOP leadership also welcomed the switch, per NH Journal, with the party chairman describing a broad coalition.
“We are the big tent party and welcome diverse views that can help make NH an even better place to live, work and raise a family.”
NH Journal
Read the full story at NH Journal.
