Former Georgia Lieutenant Governor Defects to Democratic Party, Draws Sharp Response from Trump

A prominent Republican figure has formally switched political affiliations, joining the Democratic Party after years of criticizing former President Donald Trump’s actions and policies. Geoff Duncan, who served as Georgia’s lieutenant governor from 2019 until earlier this year, announced his decision in an opinion piece published by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

Duncan’s departure follows a period during which he has publicly distanced himself from the Republican Party, particularly regarding Trump’s persistent and unfounded claims of election fraud in 2020. Last year, Duncan delivered remarks at the Democratic National Convention endorsing then-Vice President Kamala Harris.

The former lieutenant governor explained that his shift was gradual, predating Trump’s attempts to overturn the results of the previous presidential election. He cited a growing disconnect between his personal values and the contemporary Republican platform, referencing issues such as gun control legislation and immigration policies he described as “heartless.”

Trump reacted swiftly Friday morning, posting on Truth Social a derisive assessment of Duncan. The former president characterized Duncan as a “total loser” who was “never able to get anything done,” adding that his departure was welcome. He dismissed Duncan’s prospects within the Democratic Party, concluding with the assertion, “You don’t even have a chance!!!”