Jim Justice Leads in Polls, Fundraising, and Receives Trump Endorsement in U.S. Senate Race

Gov. Jim Justice is riding high in the race for U.S. Senate, with dominant polls, a fundraising edge, and now an endorsement from former President Donald Trump. Justice is so confident in his position that he is calling on his Republican primary opponent, Congressman Alex Mooney, to drop out of the race.

During a news briefing, Justice stated, “From the standpoint of where Alex Mooney goes now, I think he’ll drop out of the race and I don’t know exactly what he’ll do. I don’t know if he’ll run for Congress or not. And I don’t really know for sure if he’s going to drop out of the race, but I think that’s what’ll happen.”

Mooney’s campaign, however, quickly responded, asserting that Mooney is committed to running for U.S. Senate and highlighting his conservative credentials compared to Justice’s record of supporting liberal policies.

The race for the Republican nomination to challenge incumbent Senator Joe Manchin is heating up, with Justice leading in polls and fundraising. Justice has raised over $1.16 million and has the backing of national Republican leaders, while Mooney has raised $410,000 and has the potential for significant support from the Club for Growth.

Former President Trump added to Justice’s momentum by endorsing him on his Truth Social platform, praising Justice as a “Great UNITED STATES SENATOR.” Trump’s endorsement carries weight in West Virginia, where he remains popular.

Despite the endorsement and his strong position in the race, Justice expressed humility, stating, “I surely did not take it for granted. I am not one to ask for an endorsement. Donald Trump would do that on his time when he feels that’s what he wants to do.”

As the race continues to unfold, all eyes will be on whether Mooney heeds Justice’s call to drop out or if he continues to challenge the governor for the Republican nomination.