Ellington

JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — Republicans are closer to having a three-fifths majority of 74 votes in the Mississippi House because a newly re-elected Democrat is switching parties.

Rep. Jody Steverson of Ripley confirmed his decision Thursday to The Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal.

With one other House race unresolved, Steverson's switch gives the GOP 73 out of 122 seats.

Steverson did not immediately return a call to The Associated Press.

His announcement comes two days after he won a second term as an unopposed as a Democrat in Benton, Tippah and Union counties.

Republican House Speaker Philip Gunn said Wednesday he has invited Democrats to switch parties.

Passing tax or bond bills takes a three-fifths supermajority, and having that margin makes it easier for Republicans to make such financial decisions without seeking Democrats' support.