McDonnell switches to GOP

State Sen. Mike McDonnell is no longer a Democrat, and he's blaming Nebraska Democrats for his decision to join the GOP.

Often mentioned as a candidate for Omaha Mayor next year, McDonnell 's statement makes no mention of his possible political plans. He's term limited at the end of 2024.

Here's his full statement:

In 1984 I registered as a Democrat.

I was a Christian a member of the Roman Catholic Church and Pro-Life.

In 2016 I ran as a Pro-Life candidate for legislative District 5.

When I ran for reelection in 2020 I was Pro-Life.

I have asked the Democratic Party to respect my religious based Pro-Life position.

Instead over the last year they have decided to punish me for being Pro-Life.

The Douglas County Democrats voted not to seat me as a delegate and not to share party resources with me because I am Pro-Life.

The state Democratic Party voted to censure me because I am Pro-Life.

Being a Christian a member of the Roman Catholic Church and Pro-Life is more important to me than being a registered Democrat.

Today I am changing my party affiliation to Republican.