West Virginia Democratic Party Criticizes Don Blankenship for Filing to Run for U.S. Senate as a Democrat

Former coal executive Don Blankenship has once again thrown his hat into the political ring, this time filing to run for U.S. Senate as a Democrat in West Virginia. The move has sparked outrage from the West Virginia Democratic Party, who have criticized Blankenship for not representing their values and accused him of using this as a “sad gimmick” to stay relevant.

Blankenship, who previously ran for U.S. Senate as a Republican in 2018 and made a presidential run in 2020 as a member of the Constitution Party, is no stranger to controversy. 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 tragically lost their lives in 2010. He served one year in prison for the charge.

West Virginia Democratic Party officials have been quick to denounce Blankenship’s candidacy, with Chair Mike Pushkin calling it a “sad gimmick” and 2nd Vice Chair Sam Petsonk stating that Blankenship’s values are the “polar opposite” of Democrats. Blankenship, in turn, has fired back, criticizing the Democrats for not improving the quality of life in West Virginia and blaming them for the UBB mine explosion.

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, who announced he would not be seeking re-election. He faces competition from Glenn Elliot and Zachary Shrewsbury, as well as a number of Republican candidates including West Virginia Governor Jim Justice and U.S. Representative Alex Mooney.

The deadline for candidates to file for the Primary Election is fast approaching, with Blankenship and others vying for their spot on the ballot. The race is sure to be a contentious one, with Blankenship’s controversial past and the strong reactions from both Democrats and Republicans setting the stage for a heated campaign season in West Virginia.