Alderman Anderson changing political parties

New Albany Ward 2 Aldermen Johnny Anderson has announced that he is changing political party affiliation.

“After several years of soul searching, I have decided to switch to the Republican Party effective immediately,” Anderson said.

Anderson has served as alderman for six terms and is currently vice-mayor – all having run as a Democrat. He began serving as alderman in 1993 and served continuously except for the years 2005 through 2009.

He was unable to run for office in 2005 because of the Hatch Act, prohibiting him from having a second government position when he was, at the time, Human Resources Director of the North Mississippi State Hospital in Tupelo.

When asked if he plans to run for re-election as alderman or perhaps some other office such as mayor, he replied, “I haven’t made that decision totally. I am still contemplating and will take next year to consider it.”

“Personally, I am and have always been, opposed to the fact that local politicians have to declare a party affiliation,” he said. “I have always thought our local elections should be non-partisan.”

“Nationally, the Republican Party more closely mirrors my personal and political beliefs,” Anderson concluded.