Critical Races in Ruby-Red West Virginia Primary Election: Governor and Congress on the Line
In the heart of West Virginia, the upcoming primary election on Tuesday is set to be a pivotal moment in the state’s political landscape. With crucial races for governor and Congress on the line, all eyes are on the Mountain State as a new wave of leadership is expected to emerge.
Former President Donald Trump’s overwhelming victory in West Virginia in 2020 set the stage for a Republican stronghold in the state. After this election cycle, it is anticipated that West Virginia may see a historic shift with no Democrats representing the state in Congress for the first time since 1921.
The primary election in West Virginia is considered the main event, as highlighted by Sam Workman, the director of the West Virginia University Institute for Policy Research and Public Affairs. Despite Senator Joe Manchin’s decision not to seek reelection, outside spending in the state has continued to soar, making the West Virginia Senate race one of the most expensive this primary season.
In the race for governor, six Republicans are vying for the nomination, with Governor Jim Justice pursuing a Senate run. The field includes familiar names in West Virginia politics, such as state Attorney General Patrick Morrisey and former state Rep. Moore Capito. An Emerson College Polling-Hill survey shows Morrisey leading the pack, but Moore Capito has gained significant ground in recent months.
On the Democratic side, Huntington Mayor Steve Williams is running unopposed for governor. The open Senate seat left by Governor Justice has attracted Rep. Alex Mooney as a top contender, endorsed by prominent Republicans like former President Trump. Mooney faces an uphill battle against Justice, who has a strong lead and backing from the National Republican Senatorial Committee.
In West Virginia’s 1st Congressional District, incumbent Rep. Carol Miller is facing a primary challenge from Derrick Evans, a former lawmaker who was involved in the January 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol. The race has garnered attention, with Evans viewed as a long shot against the established incumbent.
With Mooney’s Senate run leaving his district open, the race for West Virginia’s 2nd District is competitive with a five-way primary. State Treasurer Riley Moore, endorsed by Mooney and Speaker Mike Johnson, is a key contender in the race.
As West Virginia gears up for the primary election, the state is poised for a political shakeup that could reshape its leadership for years to come. Stay tuned for the latest updates on the critical races unfolding in the Mountain State.
