"I have decided to change my party affiliation, joining the Republican Party, and have been welcomed with open arms by my colleagues," Cotham said at a press conference.
Cotham also added that the Democratic party has become unrecognizable to her, condemning what she calls the party's tendency to villainize people "trying to get things done."
Cotham, who won her election as a Democrat last fall by almost 20 points, secured a supermajority in North Carolina's state House with her change in party allegiance. With 72 seats in the state house, Republican representatives now have the ability to override vetos from Democratic Governor Roy Cooper.
Cotham, who has been vocal about her own experiences with abortion in the past, was not forthcoming with any policy changes that will follow her switch to the Republican party and has yet to divulge what legislation she will support during the briefing.
"I'm still the same person, and I am going to do what I believe is right and follow my conscience," Cotham added.
Cotham, who was a teacher before running for office, has over 10 years of experience in the House.