Hispanic Texas Democrat Switches Parties To GOP, Was 'Nervous To Be Called A Traitor' But Feels 'Very Comfortable In Switching'

“There is an unprecedented crisis at our Southern Border.  I believe that the GOP’s policies of law and order protecting safety, and backing the blue best align with my values and the values of the citizens of Kleberg County.  I look forward to working with my colleagues to keep South Texas safe.”

Sanchez was elected in 2014 and has oversight over the Kleberg County Specialized Crimes and Narcotics Task Force which plays a central role in the interception of drugs penetrating the Southern Border prior to street distribution. 

She told Fox News in a Monday statement that she was raised with conservative values by her parents who were Mexican immigrants. 

 "As a Hispanic, we were told, you know, ‘Hispanics are Democrats,’ and that is not really the case. I feel like a lot of Hispanic Americans are Republican, and they don't even know it," she said.

"I was nervous to be called a traitor," she continued. "You know, 'You're Hispanic, why are you why are you Republican?' But I feel very comfortable in switching. I feel like I feel like I'm at home and this is where I belong."

Despite the change of party, Sanchez told the outlet that her position is non-political and that her role is to "follow the law and prosecute." Kleberg County historically leaned Democrat but narrowly flipped for 45th President Donald J. Trump in 2020.

Hispanic Republicans of Texas President Cassy Garcia told reporters in a statement, "Voters and even candidates are switching to the Republican Party because Democrats no longer serve their interests.”

She added, "The best way to continue bringing folks over to the Republican Party is to keep pursuing policies that promote economic prosperity, keep our country safe, and support freedom. I’d like to thank Attorney Talip Sanchez for joining us tonight and for her work [for] Kleberg County, and I am excited to continue our outreach across Texas to bring more voters to the Republican Party."

Congressional candidate and Former Rep. Mayra Flores (R-TX) posted to X regarding her fellow Hispanic Republican, "Another proud American walks away #TheAmericanDream"