‘We Have a Problem’: Georgia Legislature’s First Black Republican Woman Explains Why She Switched Parties

When Georgia state representative Mesha Mainor switched parties last week, she consulted God and her campaign manager. As the assembly’s newest Republican, her blood pressure is now 115, the lowest it’s been since college.

“I took it to me, and the Lord, and my campaign manager, and one or two other close friends that would support me in the decision because they could care less if I’m a Republican or Democrat,” she said.