West Virginia Republicans in Primary Struggle with Election Denialism
West Virginia Republicans Face Election Denialism Test in Primary
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – As West Virginia Republicans gear up for the primary on Tuesday, a notable trend has emerged among major candidates in statewide races – the reluctance to acknowledge President Joe Biden’s victory in the 2020 election.
In a state known for its loyalty to former President Donald Trump, embracing or skirting the line on election denialism has become a silent requirement for Republican candidates running for governor and Congress. Praise for the party’s presumptive White House nominee is a common theme among the candidates, including a convicted Jan. 6 insurrectionist and the sons of two GOP members of West Virginia’s congressional delegation.
Glenn Elliott, a Democratic candidate for an open Senate seat, described denying the election outcome as a “purity test” for West Virginia Republicans. He criticized the party for demanding unwavering loyalty to Trump, labeling those who deviate as “RINOs” (Republicans In Name Only).
In the crowded governor’s race, Secretary of State Mac Warner has firmly stated his belief that the election was stolen, echoing Trump’s claims despite numerous court rulings and audits confirming Biden’s victory. Warner alleged a cover-up involving tech companies, the media, and federal intelligence officials to hide incriminating information from Hunter Biden’s laptop.
Other candidates in the race have either dodged the question or hinted at doubts about the election results. Attorney General Patrick Morrisey cited “huge irregularities” in the election but refused to give a direct answer on whether Biden won. Businessman Chris Miller, son of U.S. Rep. Carol Miller, expressed mistrust in mail-in ballots but did not explicitly state his views on Biden’s victory.
Former state lawmaker Derrick Evans, who served time for his involvement in the Capitol riot, has launched verbal attacks against his primary rival, calling her a “commie RINO” and an “undocumented Democrat.” Despite his controversial past, Evans believes his support for Trump and election denialism will resonate with voters.
The governor’s race has also seen tensions among candidates, with fundraising front-runner Patrick Morrisey labeling his opponent as a “RINO” and questioning his conservative credentials. The candidates are united on key issues like supporting the coal industry and economic development but differ on their stance on the 2020 election.
Governor Jim Justice, seeking a Senate seat, has received Trump’s endorsement, despite his occasional disagreements with the former president. Justice supported the bipartisan infrastructure act, drawing criticism from his opponent, Congressman Alex Mooney, who has labeled him a “RINO” for his bipartisan stance.
As the primary approaches, the divide among West Virginia Republicans over the 2020 election continues to shape the political landscape, highlighting the challenges of navigating loyalty to Trump and the party’s future direction.
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