Del. Rick Weldon of Frederick announced Tuesday he would be leaving the Republican Party and would register as an independent, according to The Frederick News-Post.

During a press conference at Frederick City Hall Tuesday afternoon, Weldon said he wanted to put policy in front of politics.

"The climate in Annapolis is such at accumulating partisan political power has replaced common sense thoughtful discussions about the implications of our policy decisions," said Weldon.

According to the News-Post, Weldon said he would retain his position as chair of the Frederick County legislative delegation of state lawmakers as long as his colleagues allowed it.

In an interview with PolitickerMD.com, House Minority Whip Chris Shank (R-Washington County) said  its unlikely Weldon will loose his chairmanship.

Shank called Weldon a "very valued member" of the caucus and although he was disappointed, he said he wasn't surprised with the decision since Weldon had already announced he wouldn't be seeking re-election in 2010.

Maryland Republican Party Executive Director Justin Ready told PolitickerMD.com that the MDGOP was a "beacon of thoughtful policy conversation" and the "party of common sense" in the state.

The chairman of the Frederick County Republican Central Committee, Mike Hough, has announced his candidacy for the seat. PolitickerMD.com was unable to confirm any other official bids.