"The Colorado Democratic Party welcomes its newest member Aurora Representative Debbie Stafford," said Pat Waak, Chair of the Colorado Democratic Party. "Stafford is a respected legislator with strong convictions shared by Democrats and Republicans alike."

Stafford announced her decision today stating, "I am not leaving the Republican Party as much as the Republican Party left me. I will not be changing my votes or my values. I am changing my party."

Stafford represents House District 40 in Arapahoe and Elbert Counties. By joining the Democratic Party she will bring the total number of democrats to 40 in the Colorado House of Representatives.

Stafford, who has fought for animal rights and foster care in her seven years in the House, called the decision "agonizing" but said she had to do it for her "self-respect."

Waak said, "The Republicans continue to be frustrated with the direction of the Republicans party, the lack of current leadership and the lack-luster candidates currently slated for the upcoming elections on both the local an national levels. The Republicans' lead in voter registration has dropped over 25% over the last three years. Democrats are listening to their constituents and Rep. Stafford is listening too."