His decision will not only impact his constituents, but will change Washington politics for years to come. Jeffords' decision will erase the 50-50 split in the senate. He will officially be an independent, but reportedly will align himself with the democrats, giving that party the edge. It gives us much more of an opportunity to influence important issues that we care deeply about. The move would also make it more difficult for President Bush to get his judicial nominees and his proposals on energy, taxes, education and other issues through the senate.
Experts say the senator is a moderate in a party dominated by conservatives.
In addition, he and the president are split on big issues like the tax cuts and dairy price supports, an issue critical to Vermont. Senator Jeffords might defer the effective date of his switch for a short time. That would enable republicans to push President Bush's income tax cut through. The plan is now pending on the senate floor. Here are more details about past party-hopping lawmakers.