West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice wins Republican US Senate primary, poised to succeed Sen. Manchin

West Virginia Governor Jim Justice emerged victorious in the state’s Republican US Senate primary, setting the stage for a heated battle to succeed retiring Democratic Senator Joe Manchin. Justice, a two-term governor, secured the GOP nomination in a crowded primary that included US Rep. Alex Mooney.

The West Virginia Senate seat has been a key target for Republicans in their quest to win control of the Senate this November. Manchin’s decision to retire dealt a blow to Democrats’ hopes of retaining their narrow majority in the chamber.

National Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, rallied around Justice in the primary, despite a bitter campaign that saw sharp exchanges between Justice and Mooney. Mooney accused Justice of supporting “pro-transgender legislation” and implementing the “biggest tax hike in West Virginia history,” while Justice countered with testimonials from coal miners and Trump’s endorsement.

Justice, a former Democrat who switched parties early in his first term as governor, faces Wheeling Mayor Glenn Elliott in the general election. West Virginia, a heavily Republican state, has seen strong support for Trump in recent presidential elections, making Justice the favorite in the upcoming Senate race.

However, Justice and his companies are facing legal challenges over mounting debts, raising questions about his financial practices. The stage is set for a contentious battle as Justice seeks to secure a Senate seat in a state that has long been a Republican stronghold.