Neshoba County, Mississippi

There's been a wave of Democrat Party switchers to the GOP since September. They include new Republicans in Vermont, North Carolina, Alabama, over 20 in Texas, and a growing number in Mississippi.

The latest? Neshoba County Chancery Clerk Larry McMillan. RNC Chairman Michael Steele and MS Gov. Haley Barbour even showed up for the switching ceremony.

From the Madison County Journal on-line, Dec. 18:

On hand at the event were Gov. Haley Barbour, Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant and dozens of other statewide elected GOP leaders.

The occasion was used to recognize Neshoba County Chancery Clerk Larry McMillan, who announced his intentions to switch to the Republican Party, having been a lifelong Democrat.

Steele joked with McMillan, noting all the big-name state Republicans who came out for the event.

"You really bring them out Larry," Steele said. "It's a great honor that I get to welcome you to the Republican party."

McMillan attributed his switch to being fed up with the Democrat Party's push for health care reform.

McMillan is the 9th county or municipal elected official in Mississippi to switch to the Republican Party this year.

Neshoba County (pop. 28,000) is located in Central Mississippi. The County seat is Philadelphia. It is home to one of the oldest and largest casinos in the State: Pearl River Resort.