How Weirton, West Virginia Shifted from Blue to Red: A Look at the Impact of the Steel Industry Decline on Local Politics

The once bustling steel town of Weirton, West Virginia, has seen a dramatic shift in its political landscape as its core industry collapsed over the years. Spectrum News recently visited the area to speak with residents about the upcoming presidential election and the construction of a new battery plant on the grounds of the old steel mill.

Mark Glyptis, the longtime president of United Steelworkers Local 2911 in Weirton, emphasized the importance of the steel plant to the city, calling it the “lifeline of the valley.” However, with the closure of the final tin mill in April, the once thriving industry that employed 14,000 people in the 1960s now sits empty.

The loss of jobs and the perceived lack of government intervention in saving the industry have contributed to the political transformation of the area. Once a stronghold for Democrats, Hancock County, where Weirton is located, has now become reliably red, with Donald Trump winning the county by large margins in both the 2016 and 2020 elections.

Local residents like Paul Zuros, whose family has a long history in the steel industry, expressed frustration with politicians who promised to protect jobs but failed to deliver. The sentiment of feeling forgotten and left behind has fueled the shift towards supporting Republican candidates who resonate with the community.

Despite the construction of the new battery plant, which is seen as a potential economic boost for the city, residents like Mark Steven Watson, a former Democrat, have shifted their allegiance to Trump, citing his efforts to support working-class Americans.

Political scientist Sam Workman noted that changes in media consumption have played a role in shaping political beliefs in the state. As the community looks for solutions to revitalize Weirton, they remain open to any help, regardless of political affiliation.

For now, Weirton remains firmly in Trump country, with residents like Heidi Baranowski praising the former president for his efforts to “make America great.” As the 2024 election approaches, the political landscape of Weirton serves as a microcosm of the larger shifts happening in the country.