Escambia County District Judge Dave Jordan, who is in the second year of a second six-year term, has switched to the Republican party, officials announced Wednesday.

“I have reached this decision after months of thought and prayerful consideration,” Jordan said. “I do not take it lightly. I have made what I feel is the best decision at this time.”

Jordan met with the Escambia County Republican Executive Committee Friday, chairman Jeff Peacock said, and the committee approved the party switch.

“Judge Jordan is an outstanding public servant and we are excited that he has decided to join the GOP,” Peacock said. “His decision is just another sign that the liberal agenda being pursued by the Democratic party is out of touch with the conservative values of Escambia County voters.”

Jordan has served as district judge for Escambia County since January 2003. He was successfully elected in 2004 and subsequently re-elected to his current six-year term in 2010.