West Virginia Democratic Party Criticizes Don Blankenship’s Senate Run as a Democrat

The West Virginia Democratic Party has strongly criticized former coal executive Don Blankenship for filing to run for U.S. Senate as a Democrat, calling it a “sad gimmick” to stay relevant. Blankenship, who previously ran for political office as a Republican and as a member of the Constitution Party, is now seeking the Democratic nomination for the Senate seat currently held by U.S. Senator Joe Manchin.

Blankenship, the former CEO of Massey Energy, was found guilty in 2015 of conspiring to violate mine safety standards at the Upper Big Branch mine where 29 miners were killed in 2010. Despite serving time in prison for the charge, Blankenship is now attempting to re-enter the political arena.

West Virginia Democratic Party officials have made it clear that Blankenship does not represent their values and will not find support within the party. They have labeled his candidacy as a “sad gimmick” and emphasized that his values are the “polar opposite” of Democrats.

Blankenship is one of three Democratic candidates in the race, facing off against Glenn Elliot and Zachary Shrewsbury. On the Republican side, numerous candidates are vying for the seat, including West Virginia Governor Jim Justice and U.S. Representative Alex Mooney.

The deadline for candidates to file a Statement of Candidacy for the Primary Election is approaching, with the race heating up as more contenders enter the fray. Stay tuned for updates on this closely watched Senate race in West Virginia.