HENDERSON, KY — Henderson County Property Valuation Administrator Andrew Powell has announced that he has changed his political affiliation from Democrat to Republican.
The announcement was made Thursday afternoon in Henderson, as Powell was joined by supporters as well as local and state officials, according to a news release.
Powell, who was first elected as Henderson County PVA in 2018, said the decision came after thoughtful reflection on his values and his continued commitment to serve the people of Henderson County fairly and faithfully.
“This was not a decision I made quickly or lightly,” Powell said. “Faith, family, and service have always guided my life. I am deeply committed to our community and truly desire to help those around me. Over the past several years, I’ve realized that my beliefs and principles more closely align with the Republican Party. That said, my commitment to serving every citizen of Henderson County—regardless of politics—remains the same. My focus continues to be upholding the highest standards of skill, fairness, and transparency all of Henderson County deserves from its PVA.”
Congressman James Comer welcomed Powell’s decision.
“I welcome Henderson County PVA—Andrew Powell—to the Republican Party of Kentucky,” Comer said. “Andrew has always operated his office in a very efficient and conservative manner. Andrew’s values (like most people in Kentucky) closer align with today’s Republican Party. I look forward to working with him in the future.”
U.S. Senator Dr. Rand Paul also commended the decision.
“I applaud Andrew Powell, Henderson County PVA, for joining the Republican Party—it reflects a deeper realignment of values happening across Kentucky,” said Paul. “I’m glad to welcome him and look forward to working alongside him.
Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell also praised the move.
“Andrew has been a friend and supporter of mine for years; he’s been a conservative and Republican since I’ve known him,” he said. “His registration now reflects that. Congratulations to Henderson County Republicans for adding another elected leader to the ranks.”
Powell said his decision wasn’t about politics, but about principles. “The office of the PVA is not about partisan politics; it’s about serving our community. I’m proud of not just what we do in the PVA Office but also how we do it. That will not change. The letter by my name has changed—not the heart behind my work.”
“Congratulations Andrew and welcome to the Republican Party!” said State Sen. Robby Mills. “The GOP in Kentucky continues to see monthly gains in registration as truly conservative Democrats realize their party has left them.”
“Elected officials and voters across Kentucky continue to leave the party that left them,” said State Rep. J.T. Payne. “We are proud to have Andrew as the latest member of the Grand Old Party!”
Henderson County Republican Party Chairman Dwight Williams said, “The Republican Party of Henderson is proud to announce that Andrew Powell, a respected local elected official formerly affiliated with the Democratic Party, has chosen to join the Republican Party. We welcome Andrew to our party and look forward to working with him. His switch reflects increasing party changes among local Democratic officials.”
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