PROVIDENCE -- The lopsided Democratic advantage in Rhode Island's General Assembly just got a little bigger.

Rep. Joseph Scott, Dist. 39, says he's leaving the Republican Party to become a Democrat when the House reconvenes next month.

His impending departure means there are now 13 Republicans in the House against 62 Democrats.

Scott, whose district includes Charlestown, Richmond and Exeter, says he thinks he can get more done as a member of the majority party. He says he didn't get along with House Minority Leader Robert Watson.

Watson couldn't be reached for comment. But Democratic Speaker William Murphy says he's glad Scott has "seen the light.''

-- The Associated Press