NC State Representative Tricia Cotham of Mecklenburg County is expected to announce her plan to switch from the Democratic to the Republican party on Wednesday, according to local reports. The move would give Republicans control of 72 out of 120 House seats, allowing them to override the vetoes of Democratic Governor Roy Cooper independently. It could mean a significant change for the last two years of Cooper’s term, as GOP leaders will be able to revisit bills vetoed in the past and pass otherwise contentious legislation. Cotham’s decision to become a Republican would have a significant impact on statewide politics as the legislature tackles important issues such as education funding and abortion. Despite reports of the move, Cotham has not responded to requests for comment from several media outlets. Fellow Democrat and Representative, Marcia Morey called the move "very disappointing," while Rep. Cecil Brockman, a Guilford Democrat said the party only had themselves to blame. The overrule of Cooper's firearm bill veto last week prompted significant criticism from within the Democratic party.