West Virginia Democratic Party Criticizes Don Blankenship for Filing to Run as Democrat

Former coal executive Don Blankenship’s decision to file to run for U.S. Senate as a Democrat has sparked controversy and criticism from the West Virginia Democratic Party. Blankenship, who previously ran for political office as a Republican and as a member of the Constitution Party, is known for his role in the Upper Big Branch mine disaster where 29 miners lost their lives.

The West Virginia Democratic Party has condemned Blankenship’s candidacy, calling it a “sad gimmick” and stating that his values are the “polar opposite” of what the party stands for. Blankenship, on the other hand, has fired back at the party, criticizing their track record in improving the quality of life in West Virginia and blaming the UBB mine explosion on the Democrat-controlled U.S. government.

Despite the backlash, Blankenship is one of three Democratic candidates in the race for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Senator Joe Manchin. He will be facing off against Glenn Elliot and Zachary Shrewsbury in the primary election. On the Republican side, there are numerous candidates vying for the seat, including West Virginia Governor Jim Justice and U.S. Representative Alex Mooney.

With the deadline for candidates to file for the primary election approaching, the race for the U.S. Senate seat in West Virginia is heating up with Blankenship’s controversial candidacy at the center of attention.