Longtime Kentucky Democrat Sen. Robin Webb is leaving her party. On Monday, she announced on Fox News that she’s switching to the GOP. After more than two decades as a Democrat, Webb said the party no longer reflects her values.
“I’ve struggled for years with this,” she told The Ingraham Angle. “My rural values don’t match the national party anymore.” She said the time had come to return to the Republican Party, where she first started.
Webb’s conservative roots run deep. “I’m a rancher. I’m a hunter. I’m pro-Israel,” she said. “I’ve always been a conservative voice, even as a Democrat.”
Her breaking point came as the party embraced more progressive views. Webb pointed to issues like abortion, gender identity, and rising anti-Israel rhetoric. “It’s just not who I am,” she said.
She began her political career as a Republican before switching during her time working in coal mining. But she said the Democrats have moved too far left. “It’s been a continuous struggle for me,” she explained.
Her voting record backs up her conservative leanings. In March 2025, Webb voted to override the governor’s veto of House Bill 495—supporting a ban on Medicaid coverage for transgender medical procedures and protections for conversion therapy. She also backed House Bill 90, restricting abortion access.
Webb’s exit is another hit to Democrats, who are losing support among rural and working-class voters. The party’s favorability hit a record low of 29% in March polling. It’s part of a troubling trend for Democrats heading into 2026.
New numbers don’t look better. A CNN/SSRS poll from April and May showed just 16% of Americans see Democrats as strong leaders. Only 19% think they can get things done—compared to 36% for Republicans. The shift in perception is growing.