Francis Thompson becomes a Republican, gives GOP supermajority in Louisiana Legislature

For nearly 50 years, State Rep. Francis Thompson has represented his north Louisiana House district as a conservative Democrat, earning the title of the longest-serving legislator under that party’s banner. 

But Thompson said on Friday that he will switch parties and join House Republicans — which would give the GOP 70 votes in the House, the number needed to override a veto by Democrat Gov. John Bel Edwards. Republicans already held a supermajority in the Senate.

“Let me be clear — nothing has changed,” Thompson said at a press conference Friday at the state Republican Party headquarters in Baton Rouge. “There are values and principles that I firmly hold onto that guide my decisions. My conservative voting record over the years I have served in the Legislature speaks for itself.”

The decision comes amid a broader shift in Louisiana electoral politics, as registered Democrats have fallen off voter rolls in droves. It also ensures a strong hold by the GOP over policymaking if a Republican wins the race for governor this fall.

Thompson, 81, was first elected in 1974 and went on to serve 12 years in the Senate and 37 years in the House, and counting. He’s known for working to bring significant projects to his poor and rural district. Voters there have re-elected him 11 times.

Francis’s relationship with Edwards in recent years has been tested by Thompson’s willingness to vote with Republicans. 

The governor punished Thompson in 2021 for voting against him during a special veto override session by removing Thompson from an education board appointment Thompson cherished.

“While Rep. Thompson’s decision is disappointing, it is not surprising,” Louisiana House Democratic Caucus Chair Rep. Sam Jenkins said in a press statement. “He already caucused with Republicans. Moreover, his decision does not change our focus. Louisiana families are our priority — not party politics.”

His decision came after years of reflection and conversations with House Republican leadership, as well as with voters in his district, Thompson said.

This is a developing story; check back for more.