Rep. Van Drew Given Boot From Blue Dogs Coalition, Says Staff Who Quit ‘Had No Choice’

Then-Rep.-elect Jeff Van Drew (D-N.J.) speaks to members of the media outside a closed House Democrats organizational meeting at Longworth House Office Building in Washington on Nov. 28, 2018. He will vote against impeachment. Alex Wong/Getty Images

A New Jersey lawmaker has been removed from the Democratic Blue Dog Coalition following reports that he intends to switch parties and join the Republicans. He has expressed opposition to the impeachment inquiry into President Donald Trump, Politico reports.

Rep. Jefferson Van Drew (D-N.J.)  had previously declined to confirm reports that he had decided to cut ties with the Democratic party and join the GOP following a meeting on Friday with the president.