Just The Facts

• Cotham switched from Democrat to Republican, which gives the GOP a veto-proof majority in the state house.
• Cotham had previously been endorsed by EMILY's List.
• The move is already being flagged as a major political setback for Democratic Governor Roy Cooper and allies in their attempts to block conservative initiatives during the governor’s final two years in office.
• Republicans were already in control of enough seats in the Senate to override vetoes in the scenario that all members are voting.
• Cotham is a former teacher and assistant principal and served in the House for nearly 10 years through 2016 before returning in January.