Currently, there are 4 Democratic members of the US House of Representatives that are not seeking re-election, but are retiring from office.  Now, Parker Griffith (D-AL) is announcing today that he is switching parties and becoming Republican.  Why is it the Democrats are getting the message about the changing political winds but the Republicans are still worshiping at the altar of John McCain?

Parker Griffith's switch is a double-edged sword.  According to his website, he is pro-life, and pro-2nd Amendment.  Voting records may show something different, but for now, we'll take him at his word - for now.  It's nice to see the Democrats beginning to come apart at the seams with retiring members and now a party switch.  I imagine a few more retirements will be coming as petition deadlines in other states come and pass.  This is one more seat that the GOP does not have to worry about spending money attempting to retake the House.  In the Senate, the rats are trying to pilfer what they can before they get knocked out of office themselves.

But, can a turncoat be trusted?  Remember, Arlen Specter has made party switching into a profession so be weary of those changing sides.

Time will tell, but we'll keep an eye on Rep. Griffith to see how this switch plays out.  Maybe he's genuine, maybe he's interested in self-preservation. 

Revised 12-22-09, 12:06pm.