State Representative Gary Knopp announced on Saturday that he will be leaving the GOP caucus in hopes of a coalition.

In his announcement Rep. Knopp says he is parting with the GOP caucus in hopes of forcing a consensus among lawmakers.

Rep. Knopp: “So, I think it’s going to be challenging session especially with the new administration. The House is still very fragile, very fragile body in the House. I honestly don’t think the Republicans can organize and function without some sort of coalition, I think it’s essential.”

Knopp’s decision leaves the Republicans and Democrats in the House in a 20-20 split. Knopp is beginning his second term in the House of Representatives after running unopposed in the November 6 general election.

Rep. Knopp: “There will be a lot of topics of conversations. You’re going to see the crime reform bill, SB91 brought up, the full repeal brought out but don’t think we will see any movement on it. You’re going to have more conversations on the permanent fund dividend, the budget, and medicaid expansion.”