<h4>Accessing WVDP VoteBuilder</h4>The West Virginia Democratic Party (WVDP) Voter File, VoteBuilder, is a tool available to all Democratic County Parties, candidates, and partners in good standing. VoteBuilder is considered the gold-standard of campaign technology for voter contact and volunteer management. VoteBuilder provides users access to not only the voter file data from each County Clerk, but also to powerful score modeling and consumer data to help us target the right people. Each County Party, campaign, or partner is given access to their own committee to engage in voter contact and volunteer management. The information generated by these groups is unique to each committee, and proprietary for the duration of the cycle. At the end of each calendar year, WVDP’s data team incorporates the collective data of all committees to improve the overall data for all VoteBuilder users, in this way making the use of the tool cooperative.&nbsp;In an effort to ensure quality access, fair cost, and accountable use, the WVDP is instituting the following <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/12cOh0sf7s6h8F1tRc7f7SSwpoV_yRM4uajTLStOnLL0/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">VoteBuilder policies</a> for the 2023 - 2024 cycle. WVDP reserves the right to add, remove, or change any of these policies as deemed necessary throughout the cycle.

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<h2>Running for office takes a lot of planning and hard work.</h2><h2>WVDP is here to help.</h2>Thinking of running for office! Let's start your plan.Email us! <a href="mailto:runforoffice@wvdemocrats.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">runforoffice@wvdemocrats.com</a>WVSOS list of pre-candidates: <a href="https://cfrs.wvsos.gov/#/explore/precandidate" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://cfrs.wvsos.gov/#/explore/precandidate</a>

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<h2><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1no6lmvti5LIAbdL9znqwja1yErnvwG0A/view?usp=share_link" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">WV County Executive Committee Chair List</a></h2><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1no6lmvti5LIAbdL9znqwja1yErnvwG0A/view?usp=share_link" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">PDF: WVPD County Chair List</a>

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<h2><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bUVw9hbDowc_06KITRkC25TqsPF8X85I/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" style="color: var(--color-text)">WVDP Full Platform</a><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bUVw9hbDowc_06KITRkC25TqsPF8X85I/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" style="color: var(--color-text)"> (PDF)</a></h2>PDF LINK - <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bUVw9hbDowc_06KITRkC25TqsPF8X85I/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" style="color: var(--color-text)">WVDP Platform adopted June 15, 2024 at the WV Democratic Party State Convention</a>

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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QLUzu7cNKbLE3bSeh-CMC5n-Y5qGzA8t/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">WVDP Affirmative Action and Outreach Plan PDF Link</a>

<h2><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QLUzu7cNKbLE3bSeh-CMC5n-Y5qGzA8t/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">WVDP Affirmative Action and Outreach Plan</a></h2>West Virginia Democratic PartyAffirmative Action and Outreach Planadopted May 13, 2023This Affirmative Action and Outreach Plan was drafted by the WV Democratic Party (“WVDP”)affirmative action committee and adopted by the WVDP Executive Committee on [DATE].History:In January 1968, the Democratic National Committee adopted the Six Basic Elements of an openparty as a policy statement. We affirm our commitment to these principles as updated, which areas follows:Six Basic Elements of an Open Party1. All public meetings at all levels of the Democratic Party in each state should be opento all members of the Democratic Party regardless of race, sex, age, color, creed,national origin, religion, ethnic identity, sexual orientation, gender identity andexpression, economic status or disability (hereinafter collectively referred to as“status”).2. No test for membership in, nor any oaths of loyalty to, the Democratic Party in anystate should be required or used which has the effect of requiring prospective orcurrent members of the Democratic Party to acquiesce in, condone or supportdiscrimination based on “status.”3. The time and place for all public meetings of the Democratic Party on all levelsshould be publicized fully and in such a manner as to assure timely notice to allinterested persons. Such meetings must be held in places accessible to all Partymembers and large enough to accommodate all interested persons.4. The Democratic Party, on all levels, should support the broadest possible registrationwithout discrimination based on “status.”5. The Democratic Party in each state should publicize fully and in such a manner as toassure notice to all interested parties a full description of the legal and practicalprocedures for selection of Democratic Party officers and representatives on alllevels. Publication of these procedures should be done in such fashion that allprospective and current members of each State Democratic Party will be fully andadequately informed of the pertinent procedures in time to participate in eachselection procedure at all levels of the Democratic Party organization. Each StateParty should develop a strategy to provide education programs directly to voters whocontinue to experience confusing timelines for registration, changing party affiliationdeadlines, or lack of awareness of the process for running for delegate, to ensure allDemocratic voters understand the rules and timelines and their impact on voterparticipation.6. The Democratic Party in each state should publicize fully and in such a manner as toassure notice to all interested parties a complete description of all positions as officersand representatives of the state Democratic Party. Such publication should be done ina timely fashion so that all prospective candidates or applicants for any elected orappointed position within each State Democratic Party will have full and adequateopportunity to compete for office.History, continued:In 1974 the national Democratic Party adopted the Charter of the Democratic Party of the UnitedStates. In that Charter, the Party mandated that all state parties adopt and implement affirmativeprograms to provide for representation of historically underrepresented diversity groups asindicated by their presence in the Democratic electorate and that the program shall includespecific goals and timetables.On March 15, 2021, the WV Democratic Party (“WVDP”) adopted Bylaws with a provision forthe WVDP Affirmative Action Committee (“AAC”) made up of elected co-chairs from each ofthe diversity caucuses. In the newly adopted Bylaws, Article VIII, provided that the AAC shalldraft, and the Executive Committee shall promptly adopt an Affirmative Action Outreach Planthat will increase opportunity and diversity in the WVDP and provide for representation on theExecutive Committee as nearly as practicable of the historically underrepresented groups, asindicated by their presence in the Democratic electorate based on data derived by the DNC, andthat the program shall include specific goals and timetables. Article VIII also provided thatdiversity caucuses will choose their leadership.During the month of May 2021, the following diversity caucuses were formed: Black, LGBTQ+,Persons with Disabilities, Senior, Women, and Youth. The co-chairs of these caucuses met onJune 2, 2021, as the Affirmative Action Committee (AAC) and elected Hollis Lewis and MaryThorp as AAC co-chairs. On June 3, 2021, the 2 AAC co-chairs were seated as members of theWVDP State Executive Committee along with 5 of 6 at-large diversity members provided for inthe newly adopted Bylaws.<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QLUzu7cNKbLE3bSeh-CMC5n-Y5qGzA8t/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">On May 13, 2023 the affirmative action plan, drafted by the WVDP Affirmative Action</a><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QLUzu7cNKbLE3bSeh-CMC5n-Y5qGzA8t/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Committee was adopted</a>. <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QLUzu7cNKbLE3bSeh-CMC5n-Y5qGzA8t/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">PDF Link</a>

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<h2>Committee for Diversity and Underrepresented Constituencies - CDUC</h2><h4><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/19h9B4PeOm6xAHu1FOQ6629yXyQDsqVDn/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">WVDP CDUC membership list PDF</a></h4>

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<h2><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1axMYU-f1DC1WBC3DdMGzq3pM8XoJuIoU/view?usp=share_link" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" style="color: var(--color-text)">Bylaws of the West Virginia Democratic Party</a></h2><h4>Preamble</h4>It shall be the policy of the Democratic Party of the State of West Virginia to foster equal opportunity for all individuals to participate and serve in party offices and functions regardless of sex, age, race, color, creed, religion, sexual orientation, gender, national origin, gender identity, ethnic identity, ancestry, economic status, and persons with disabilities.<h4>Party Name and Emblem</h4>The Party’s name shall be “The Democratic Party of the State of West Virginia” and its official continuing governing body shall be known as “The West Virginia State Democratic Executive Committee” or “WVSDEC” or “State Executive Committee.” The emblem of the “Party” shall be the donkey.&nbsp;<h4>Introduction to the Bylaws</h4>These Bylaws shall govern the organization and conduct of the business of the Democratic Party of the State of West Virginia. The Democratic Party of West Virginia shall conduct its affairs in accordance with the Democratic National Committee Charter and Bylaws. These Bylaws shall be formally adopted by all county organizations in the state and shall control all levels of party organization in all counties. Each county organization may adopt such supplementary bylaws as they deem necessary, in so far as they do not conflict with the state party bylaws and do not abridge the lawful political rights of any person. In the absence of other provisions, Robert's Rules of Order (as most recently revised) shall govern the conduct of all Democratic Party meetings.<h4><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1axMYU-f1DC1WBC3DdMGzq3pM8XoJuIoU/view?usp=share_link" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">PDF Link to full Bylaws of the Democratic Party of West Virginia</a></h4>Adopted June 15, 2024

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<h2>WVDP Platform Summary</h2><h4>WV Democrats are an inclusive party, focused on building a better future for all.</h4><h4>That means modern infrastructure and equal opportunities for all.</h4>Democracy – We believe in transparent, participatory democracy. Peaceful transfer of power. Protecting voting rights and the Constitution. Open primaries (independent/non-affiliated voters may vote in WV Democratic primary elections).&nbsp;Modern Infrastructure – Tens of billions in public and private investments are coming to WV due to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act. New factories, roads, bridges, transit, and better jobs. Eldercare and childcare are also critical infrastructure for our families and businesses.Labor – Strengthen the voices of all workers. Improve wages, benefits, collective bargaining, safety/health, retirement security, and working conditions.Human Rights – All are welcome here. No hate in our hollers. We promote equal opportunity for all. Law enforcement and first responders have key roles in both securing and caring for communities. We promote long-term recovery from substance use disorder in our jails, workplaces, hospitals, &amp; beyond.&nbsp;We support restoring the constitutional right to reproductive freedom, and access to high-quality reproductive health care services.Public Education &amp; Families – High-quality, free public education requires greater investment in public schools. We honor and support teachers and school service personnel. Reduce student debt. Expand early childhood and after-school programs. Oppose privatization of public schools. Improve childcare &amp; foster care.Healthcare for All – Quality, affordable healthcare is a basic human right. Millions of citizens have affordable healthcare because of the Affordable Care Act. Creating a high-quality, affordable public option will yield more competition &amp; better healthcare outcomes.Energy &amp; Environment – Efficient, sustainable development is good for workers, businesses, households, and public health. Reduce energy costs through new tech. Reducing emissions can occur with all fuel sources. Conserve natural resources. Protect special places. Polluters should pay for the costs of their business.Public Health – Invest in protecting public health, including food security, access to nature, and the physical, mental, and social health of all.Immigration is part of our heritage as West Virginians. We support secure borders and immigration law reform. We also have a spirit of grace and mercy toward refugees facing cruelty and exile. Migration can bring economic opportunity.Global Leadership – U.S. foreign policy must advance America’s security, prosperity, and values. We honor our veterans and military. Internationally, we support democracy, labor (fair trade), human rights, and America’s alliances. <h4>When Democrats govern, we build an equitable &amp; growing economy.</h4><h4>When Republicans govern, West Virginia loses.</h4>Adopted by the 2024 West Virginia Democratic Party State Convention, June 15, 2024

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<h2>WVDP Platform Summary</h2><h4>WV Democrats are an inclusive party, focused on building a better future for all.</h4><h4>That means modern infrastructure and equal opportunities for all. </h4>Democracy – We believe in transparent, participatory democracy. Peaceful transfer of power. Protecting voting rights and the Constitution. Open primaries (independent/non-affiliated voters may vote in WV Democratic primary elections).&nbsp;Modern Infrastructure – Tens of billions in public and private investments are coming to WV due to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act. New factories, roads, bridges, transit, and better jobs. Eldercare and childcare are also critical infrastructure for our families and businesses.Labor – Strengthen the voices of all workers. Improve wages, benefits, collective bargaining, safety/health, retirement security, and working conditions.Human Rights – All are welcome here. No hate in our hollers. We promote equal opportunity for all. Law enforcement and first responders have key roles in both securing and caring for communities. We promote long-term recovery from substance use disorder in our jails, workplaces, hospitals, &amp; beyond.&nbsp;We support restoring the constitutional right to reproductive freedom, and access to high-quality reproductive health care services.Public Education &amp; Families – High-quality, free public education requires greater investment in public schools. We honor and support teachers and school service personnel. Reduce student debt. Expand early childhood and after-school programs. Oppose privatization of public schools. Improve childcare &amp; foster care.Healthcare for All – Quality, affordable healthcare is a basic human right. Millions of citizens have affordable healthcare because of the Affordable Care Act. Creating a high-quality, affordable public option will yield more competition &amp; better healthcare outcomes.Energy &amp; Environment – Efficient, sustainable development is good for workers, businesses, households, and public health. Reduce energy costs through new tech. Reducing emissions can occur with all fuel sources. Conserve natural resources. Protect special places. Polluters should pay for the costs of their business.Public Health – Invest in protecting public health, including food security, access to nature, and the physical, mental, and social health of all.Immigration is part of our heritage as West Virginians. We support secure borders and immigration law reform. We also have a spirit of grace and mercy toward refugees facing cruelty and exile. Migration can bring economic opportunity.Global Leadership – U.S. foreign policy must advance America’s security, prosperity, and values. We honor our veterans and military. Internationally, we support democracy, labor (fair trade), human rights, and America’s alliances. <h4>When Democrats govern, we build an equitable &amp; growing economy.</h4><h4>When Republicans govern, West Virginia loses.</h4>Adopted by the 2024 West Virginia Democratic Party State Convention, June 15, 2024

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<h2>WVDP Strategic Plan.</h2><a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1QB4GIhZLqHIeNgm8yINzC4rrtWSA33O5lxvuEX3VFd8/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">LINK: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1QB4GIhZLqHIeNgm8yINzC4rrtWSA33O5lxvuEX3VFd8/edit?usp=sharing</a>🎯 Our MissionHelp elect Democratic leaders in West Virginia by supporting candidates, improving communication, and building strong local teams.🧱 Our Focus Areas<ol><li>Candidate Support<ul><li>Find and help strong candidates.</li><li>Offer training and resources.</li><li>Build local teams to support them.</li></ul></li><li>Communications<ul><li>Share our message clearly and widely.</li><li>Use social media and local news effectively.</li><li>Create materials that explain our goals.</li></ul></li><li>Competence (Money &amp; Teamwork)<ul><li>Raise funds to support our work.</li><li>Work together with other groups.</li><li>Plan and manage our resources wisely.</li></ul></li></ol><a style="color: var(--color-text)" href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1QB4GIhZLqHIeNgm8yINzC4rrtWSA33O5lxvuEX3VFd8/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">🔗 Review the full plan by clicking here.</a>

<h2>Let's get back to Electing Democrats!</h2>To make an online contribution to support West Virginia Democrats please <a href="https://secure.actblue.com/donate/wvdpwebsite" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary)">visit our ActBlue donation page</a>.To send a check, please make payable to: West Virginia Democratic Party P.O. Box 11926Charleston, WV 25339

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<h2><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1brvJhrDh2pFGmctpPr210X64tp_H-9M2/view?usp=share_link" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">WV State Democratic Executive Committee Membership List</a></h2><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1brvJhrDh2pFGmctpPr210X64tp_H-9M2/view?usp=share_link" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">PDF: </a><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1brvJhrDh2pFGmctpPr210X64tp_H-9M2/view?usp=share_link" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">WVSDEC Official Membership List - Website - Position</a>

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<h2>🏦 Need a Bank Account for Your Campaign?</h2>Before you can raise or spend money, your campaign must be filed with the WVSOS (or FEC for federal races).Once that is done, you'll need to have a bank account—and that starts with getting an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS.We've created a&nbsp;<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WXXGtHC9myJT69hW-BRMwgTOXEsql2uy/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">step-by-step guide</a>&nbsp;to help West Virginia candidates apply for an EIN quickly and correctly.<a style="color: var(--color-text)" href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WXXGtHC9myJT69hW-BRMwgTOXEsql2uy/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">📄&nbsp;Download the WVDP EIN Setup Guide (PDF)</a>

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 4, 2025 CHARLESTON, WV – As Donald Trump addresses a Joint Session of Congress tonight, the West Virginia Democratic Party is calling out his failed leadership and broken promises to West Virginians. Trump campaigned here in 2016 with a prop shovel, claiming he would revive the coal industry. But in 2025, that same shovel is being used to dig the grave for West Virginia’s energy economy.“When Trump campaigned here during his first campaign, he brought a prop shovel to illustrate how he ‘digs’ coal,” said West Virginia Democratic Party Vice Chair Teresa Toriseva. “Little did we know he would return in 2025 and use that shovel to dig the grave for West Virginia’s energy economy.”The evidence is clear. Trump’s reckless policies are costing West Virginians their jobs:• Over <a href="https://wvmetronews.com/2025/02/25/uncertainty-causes-a-weakening-of-the-market-for-metallurgical-coal/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">165 coal miners</a> were laid off earlier this year, a devastating blow to families who depended on those paychecks.• The <a href="https://www.alleghenyfront.org/trump-clean-energy-arch2-appalachian-regional-hydrogen-hub/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">$7 billion hydrogen hub project</a> has stalled in West Virginia thanks to Trump's spending freeze, putting more high-paying energy jobs at risk.• <a href="https://wvmetronews.com/2025/02/25/uncertainty-causes-a-weakening-of-the-market-for-metallurgical-coal/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Trump’s trade war</a> is driving down demand for West Virginia’s metallurgical coal, which is critical for steelmaking. That has already cost at least 165 miners at Leer South Mine in Barbour County their jobs.• <a href="https://www.npr.org/2025/03/04/nx-s1-5317515/u-s-stock-markets-plunge-trump-tariffs-canada-mexico-china" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">The Trump tariffs</a> are driving down the stock market and threatening the retirement security of millions of Americans.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The 165 coal mining jobs lost are a result of the Trump tariffs which are a direct attack on metallurgical coal. China has now chosen to purchase their coal from Australia, not West Virginia. As a result, the metallurgical coal market is now in jeopardy and so are the jobs of our hardworking coal miners,” said House Minority Whip Shawn Fluharty.&nbsp;Trump’s attacks on working families don’t stop there. His administration is allowing Elon Musk to lay off West Virginia workers at the U.S. Treasury Department, gutting good-paying government jobs right here at home. The other 20,000 federal employees who live in West Virginia are now wondering if their jobs are next on the chopping block. “Trump talks a big game about standing up for West Virginians, but the truth is, he’s costing us jobs,” added Toriseva. “Coal miners, energy workers, and even federal employees are all worse off because of him. West Virginia deserves better than a president who sells false hope while delivering pink slips.”As Trump takes the stage tonight, West Virginians should remember: he promised jobs, but all he’s delivered are layoffs, lost opportunities, and economic hardship.

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West Virginia Democrats Slam Trump’s Empty Promises as State Suffers Job Losses Under His Leadership

<img src="https://run.imgix.net/7869f6cd-87f4-4d00-8eac-4771588dd2ec/cfa19aea-e57b-45ac-a150-2645eec07db1/b4d1cc19-e4fb-494a-8a1f-e542ed5fe693.webp?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C4096%2C4096&amp;w=1500" alt="March 16 WVDP Town Hall" caption="" align="left" alignwidth="45" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed">Join us Sundays at 8:00 PMThis week featuring: <a href="https://www.wvlegislature.gov/House/lawmaker.cfm?member=Delegate%20Hamilton" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Delegate Anitra Hamilton</a> &amp; <a href="https://www.wvlegislature.gov/House/lawmaker.cfm?member=Delegate%20Young" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Delegate Kayla Young</a><a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/RBnuSUtCR3WSswOe_9nPxQ#/registration" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Register to join here: ZOOM REGISTRTION LINK</a>

WVDP Weekly Legislative Town Hall March 16 with Delegates Hamilton and Young

<span class="image video image-center" data-embed="<iframe width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;315&quot; src=&quot;https://www.youtube.com/embed/xyWNoZKjhqc?si=p2vhSLmAN8NutHVu&quot; title=&quot;YouTube video player&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; allow=&quot;accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share&quot; referrerpolicy=&quot;strict-origin-when-cross-origin&quot; allowfullscreen></iframe>" style="width: 100%;"><img imageurl="https://run.imgix.net/7869f6cd-87f4-4d00-8eac-4771588dd2ec/a51c3444-6dff-458e-9abd-7e98e4ecfb5d/4741bd97-c783-4935-95ff-a506f8dfb7c3.webp?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C4096%2C2300&amp;w=1500" embedcode="<iframe width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;315&quot; src=&quot;https://www.youtube.com/embed/xyWNoZKjhqc?si=p2vhSLmAN8NutHVu&quot; title=&quot;YouTube video player&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; allow=&quot;accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share&quot; referrerpolicy=&quot;strict-origin-when-cross-origin&quot; allowfullscreen></iframe>" align="center" alignwidth="50" src="https://run.imgix.net/7869f6cd-87f4-4d00-8eac-4771588dd2ec/a51c3444-6dff-458e-9abd-7e98e4ecfb5d/4741bd97-c783-4935-95ff-a506f8dfb7c3.webp?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C4096%2C2300&amp;w=1500" data-embed="<iframe width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;315&quot; src=&quot;https://www.youtube.com/embed/xyWNoZKjhqc?si=p2vhSLmAN8NutHVu&quot; title=&quot;YouTube video player&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; allow=&quot;accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share&quot; referrerpolicy=&quot;strict-origin-when-cross-origin&quot; allowfullscreen></iframe>"><span class="video-button-placeholder" data-embed="<iframe width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;315&quot; src=&quot;https://www.youtube.com/embed/xyWNoZKjhqc?si=p2vhSLmAN8NutHVu&quot; title=&quot;YouTube video player&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; allow=&quot;accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share&quot; referrerpolicy=&quot;strict-origin-when-cross-origin&quot; allowfullscreen></iframe>">

WVDP Chair Pushkin on Talkline 16 April 2025

<span class="image video image-center" data-embed="<iframe width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;315&quot; src=&quot;https://www.youtube.com/embed/bpbshq8tp8A?si=BE5LvyfJDBxe7yQK&quot; title=&quot;YouTube video player&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; allow=&quot;accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share&quot; referrerpolicy=&quot;strict-origin-when-cross-origin&quot; allowfullscreen></iframe>" style="width: 80%;"><img imageurl="https://run.imgix.net/7869f6cd-87f4-4d00-8eac-4771588dd2ec/22b1d8be-7e0e-4363-ba96-0ba14295d567/22b1d8be-7e0e-4363-ba96-0ba14295d567.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C2266%2C1084&amp;w=1500" embedcode="<iframe width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;315&quot; src=&quot;https://www.youtube.com/embed/bpbshq8tp8A?si=BE5LvyfJDBxe7yQK&quot; title=&quot;YouTube video player&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; allow=&quot;accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share&quot; referrerpolicy=&quot;strict-origin-when-cross-origin&quot; allowfullscreen></iframe>" caption="" align="center" alignwidth="40" src="https://run.imgix.net/7869f6cd-87f4-4d00-8eac-4771588dd2ec/22b1d8be-7e0e-4363-ba96-0ba14295d567/22b1d8be-7e0e-4363-ba96-0ba14295d567.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C2266%2C1084&amp;w=1500" data-embed="<iframe width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;315&quot; src=&quot;https://www.youtube.com/embed/bpbshq8tp8A?si=BE5LvyfJDBxe7yQK&quot; title=&quot;YouTube video player&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; allow=&quot;accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share&quot; referrerpolicy=&quot;strict-origin-when-cross-origin&quot; allowfullscreen></iframe>"><span class="video-button-placeholder" data-embed="<iframe width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;315&quot; src=&quot;https://www.youtube.com/embed/bpbshq8tp8A?si=BE5LvyfJDBxe7yQK&quot; title=&quot;YouTube video player&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; allow=&quot;accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share&quot; referrerpolicy=&quot;strict-origin-when-cross-origin&quot; allowfullscreen></iframe>">WHEN: Wednesday, April 9 at 2:15 PM

WV House Dems Press Conference - Day 57

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - April 15, 2025 CHARLESTON, WV — The West Virginia Democratic Party sharply criticized Senate Republican leadership today for blatantly violating established Senate rules to pass Senate Bill 474, a controversial bill aimed at ending diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives statewide.Senator Eric Tarr's unprecedented motion to suspend Joint Rule 3 to bypass critical amendments required a two-thirds roll call vote, followed by concurrence from the House of Delegates—neither of which occurred. When Senate Republicans realized their procedural errors, they made a half-hearted motion to reconsider, but even that motion was never properly voted upon."What happened on the Senate floor was nothing short of disgraceful," said Senator Joey Garcia. "They did not allow any debate. They didn't even allow us to take up the amendments we had filed in the system and have a hearing on each of them — which I believe, under the rules, is something that had to happen. The rules were simply not followed.”Further compounding the chaos, Senate President Randy Smith astonishingly claimed ignorance about the legality of the procedure, stating the question was "above his pay grade.""The Senate President is the presiding officer of the Senate. It's literally his job to make sure rules and procedures are properly followed," stated West Virginia Democratic Party Chair Mike Pushkin. "In this instance, President Smith didn't just neglect his duties; he actively abdicated his responsibility.&nbsp;“There's a reason the Senate President's license plate has the number 2 on it,” added Pushkin.&nbsp; “It's because the only one above his pay grade is the Governor.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Pushkin continued, "The Senate, traditionally considered the more deliberative legislative body, under Randy Smith’s leadership, has chosen tyranny over transparency. Their message is loud and clear: 'We have the majority, so rules don’t apply.' This isn't governance—it's arrogance."The West Virginia Democratic Party calls for immediate accountability from Senate leadership and demands the reversal of Senate Bill 474 until proper legislative procedures and transparent debate can take place.

WVDP Condemns Senate for Violating Senate Rules to Force Passage of Controversial Anti-DEI Bill

Charleston, WV – Today, the West Virginia Democratic Party called on Governor Patrick Morrisey to establish an Employment Task Force to assist the thousands of federal workers in West Virginia who may lose their jobs due to Donald Trump’s and Elon Musk’s plans to downsize the federal workforce.“West Virginia is home to over 17,000 federal workers who provide vital services to our state and nation,” said West Virginia Democratic Party Chair Mike Pushkin. “If Trump and Musk have their way, these hardworking men and women could be out of a job, and West Virginia’s economy will take a devastating hit. We need a plan in place to protect them and their families.”Senator Joey Garcia D-13 said: “My district is home to hundreds of dedicated federal employees who serve our nation every day—whether at the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services Division in Clarksburg, the Veterans Administration in Marion County, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in Fairmont, or other federal agencies across North Central West Virginia. These are hardworking West Virginians who protect our communities, care for our veterans, and contribute to critical research and public safety. If Donald Trump follows through on his plan to gut the federal workforce, it will devastate families in our region and weaken essential services that so many West Virginians rely on. Governor Morrisey needs to stand up for these workers.”Pushkin urged Governor Morrisey to take immediate action by forming a bipartisan Employment Task Force that would:• Identify the federal jobs at risk in West Virginia.• Develop rapid-response job placement and retraining programs.• Coordinate with state agencies, private sector employers, and labor unions to create pathways to new employment.• Advocate for federal assistance to support displaced workers.“We’ve seen this story before—outsiders making decisions that cost West Virginians their jobs, and politicians like Patrick Morrisey standing by, refusing to lift a finger,” said Pushkin. “This time, the Governor must step up and fight for our people instead of his billionaire buddies.”West Virginia’s federal workforce includes VA hospital employees, law enforcement officers, mine safety inspectors, Bureau of the Public Debt, and scientific researchers—many of whom have dedicated their careers to public service. These cuts would not only harm individual workers and their families but also weaken vital government functions that serve West Virginians.“If Governor Morrisey is serious about protecting West Virginia jobs, he should stop rubber-stamping Trump’s reckless policies and start working on a plan to help the families who will suffer the consequences,” Pushkin concluded.###

WVDP Calls on Morrisey to Create Employment Task Force to Assist Federal Workers Facing Job Loss

<h4>Pushkin Blasts Governor Jim Justice for Giving Nucor Steel Another $75 Million in Taxpayer Funds While Raising Health Insurance Costs on Public Employees</h4>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE								December 20, 2024Charleston, WV – West Virginia Democratic Party Chair Mike Pushkin today criticized Governor Jim Justice for handing out another $75 million in taxpayer funds to Nucor Steel, on top of the $315 million already promised to the corporation. The new allocation, approved yesterday by the West Virginia Economic Development Authority (WVEDA), brings the total state-funded investment to $390 million — a staggering amount representing 8% of West Virginia’s General Revenue Budget.“To be clear – we're not opposed to all economic development incentives. West Virginians support smart economic development that creates jobs and strengthens our communities,” Pushkin said. “But there’s a big difference between strategic incentives and blank checks. When a company with billions of dollars in cash reserves keeps coming back to the taxpayer trough for more and more handouts, it raises serious concerns about who is really benefitting from these deals. It’s time for the Justice administration to draw a line. West Virginians deserve to know how much is too much — and at what point the return on investment stops justifying the cost to our teachers, public employees, and retirees.”While Nucor is a Fortune 150 company with a market capitalization of over $27 billion, Justice is demanding that West Virginia taxpayers foot the bill. Pushkin called the move “unconscionable,” especially as public employees face dramatic increases in their PEIA (Public Employees Insurance Agency) premiums and out-of-pocket health care costs.“This is a slap in the face to every teacher, public employee, first responder, and retiree in West Virginia,” Pushkin said. “Governor Justice is handing nearly $400 million of our tax dollars to one of the wealthiest corporations in America while telling public employees they have to dig deeper into their own pockets to pay for health insurance. It’s outrageous, it’s wrong, and it’s a clear statement of who Jim Justice thinks deserves a helping hand — and it’s not working West Virginians.”Pushkin highlighted that Nucor’s most recent financial filings showed the company had $4.86 billion in cash and $1.75 billion in revolving credit — more than enough to fund the expansion of its $3.5 billion steel mill in Mason County without public assistance.“Why are West Virginians being forced to subsidize a multinational corporation’s expansion when the company can afford to pay for it on its own?” Pushkin asked. “Everyday West Virginians are being told there’s no money for better pay for teachers, no money to keep PEIA affordable, but somehow Jim Justice can always find millions for his corporate friends. It’s corporate welfare at its worst.”The additional state funding comes at a time when the PEIA Board recently announced benefit cuts and massive premium increases for public employees. Teachers, state workers, first responders, and retirees will soon be paying significantly more for health care, with many fearing they will be priced out of their coverage entirely. Pushkin said the contrast could not be starker.“While Jim Justice is writing checks to Nucor, he’s taking money out of the paychecks of teachers, school service workers, and state employees,” Pushkin said. “Families are struggling to pay for health care, and Jim Justice’s solution is to raise their costs while handing out hundreds of millions to corporate giants. It tells you everything you need to know about who he’s fighting for — and it’s not West Virginia workers.”While Nucor has agreed to create up to 1,000 jobs as part of the project, Pushkin questioned the wisdom of placing so much trust in a corporation with a history of prioritizing profits over people.“This is a company that will gladly take our money now, but where will they be 10 years from now?” Pushkin asked. “We’ve seen it before — companies promise jobs, take the money, and then leave workers and communities high and dry. If Nucor is so committed to West Virginia, they should be willing to invest in our state without relying on public handouts.”Pushkin concluded by calling on the Justice administration to be transparent about the deal and demand stronger clawback provisions to protect West Virginians.“If Jim Justice insists on handing over $390 million of taxpayer money to a multi-billion-dollar corporation, then we deserve to know every term of the deal,” Pushkin said. “The people of West Virginia are the real ‘investors’ in this project, and they deserve to know what they’re getting in return. We’ve been burned before, and we can’t afford to be burned again.”###

Pushkin Blasts Governor Jim Justice for Giving Nucor Steel Another $75 Million in Taxpayer Funds

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEApril 1, 2025CHARLESTON, WV — The West Virginia Democratic Party today condemned House Republicans for championing <a href="https://www.wvlegislature.gov/bill_status/bills_history.cfm?INPUT=3516&amp;year=2025&amp;sessiontype=RS" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">House Bill 3516</a>, a dangerous and callous attempt to roll back legal protections for survivors of childhood sexual abuse. The bill repeals key provisions of a <a href="https://www.wvlegislature.gov/bill_status/bills_text.cfm?billdoc=HB4559%20ENR.htm&amp;yr=2020&amp;sesstype=RS&amp;i=4559" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary)">2020 law, HB 4559</a>, which passed with near-unanimous bipartisan support and modestly extended the statute of limitations for civil lawsuits brought by survivors of child sexual abuse.Under HB 3516, victims whose abusers are covered by the state’s insurance agency—BRIM—would see their window to seek justice slashed from 18 years to just 2 years after turning 18. Victims of such abuse would be left with almost no meaningful legal recourse.“HB 3516 is a slap in the face to victims,” said Teresa Toriseva, Vice Chair of the West Virginia Democratic Party and an attorney who has spent decades representing survivors of childhood sexual abuse. “It is well known that many victims are not able to come forward until well into adulthood because of the deep emotional trauma caused by their abuse. This bill re-victimizes them a second time and will go down in infamy. This cruel and dangerous bill, championed by House Republicans, rips away the legal rights of child sexual abuse survivorsThe timing of this bill is especially egregious in light of the tragedy that was exposed less than two years ago at the <a href="https://apnews.com/article/west-virginia-school-sexual-abuse-lawsuit-settlement-703449a43eb04c4e8459aa16a6edcfa2" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Miracle Meadows Boarding School</a> for troubled youth in Salem, West Virginia. Thirty-two victims came forward to report the details of the horrific abuse they suffered at the hands of their so-called care takers at the church school. “Among the abuse alleged by the former students, who are now adults, included being chained and shackled to beds, being kept in tiny isolation rooms for long periods, routine beatings, sexual assault, starvation, and being forced to perform manual labor. The children at times were not given toilet paper, requiring them to remain in their own filth or use their clothing to clean themselves.” These are exactly the kinds of survivors who would be silenced under HB 3516.House Minority Whip Shawn Fluharty (D-Ohio) expressed deep concern for what the bill means for survivors: “This legislation is a devastating blow to victims of childhood sexual abuse. We know how difficult it is for survivors to come forward, and how long it can take to process that trauma. Stripping away their right to seek justice based on an arbitrary timeline is unconscionable. Instead of protecting survivors, this bill protects the insurance industry and corporate America. We should be helping victims heal, not silencing them.”The 2020 law that HB 3516 seeks to dismantle, HB 4559, was a bipartisan effort to provide a more reasonable path for survivors to pursue civil action. One of its co-sponsors, Democratic Party Chair Mike Pushkin, called HB 3516 a betrayal of victims and a stunning example of political cowardice.“This bill is a cruel step backward for survivors of childhood sexual abuse. It sends the message that their pain doesn’t matter if their abuser happened to work for an institution insured by BRIM. Survivors deserve time, support, and access to justice—not a legal technicality that shuts the courthouse doors in their faces. HB 3516 protects institutions at the expense of real people who have suffered unimaginable harm. We should be standing with victims—not turning our backs on them.”The West Virginia Democratic Party stands with survivors and will continue to fight against any legislation that puts political expediency or institutional protection ahead of justice for victims.<span class="image video image-center" data-embed="<iframe width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;315&quot; src=&quot;https://www.youtube.com/embed/8ZFlOWQ4Mck?si=LEC008YwiXxfZqci&quot; title=&quot;YouTube video player&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; allow=&quot;accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share&quot; referrerpolicy=&quot;strict-origin-when-cross-origin&quot; allowfullscreen></iframe>" style="width: 85%;"><img imageurl="https://run.imgix.net/7869f6cd-87f4-4d00-8eac-4771588dd2ec/f4bac95f-db6b-47bc-8be7-4a44b5f51b30/fc8ecf0c-3a77-4bb9-8331-9e8da47e7493.webp?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C4096%2C3072&amp;w=1500" embedcode="<iframe width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;315&quot; src=&quot;https://www.youtube.com/embed/8ZFlOWQ4Mck?si=LEC008YwiXxfZqci&quot; title=&quot;YouTube video player&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; allow=&quot;accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share&quot; referrerpolicy=&quot;strict-origin-when-cross-origin&quot; allowfullscreen></iframe>" align="center" alignwidth="42.5" src="https://run.imgix.net/7869f6cd-87f4-4d00-8eac-4771588dd2ec/f4bac95f-db6b-47bc-8be7-4a44b5f51b30/fc8ecf0c-3a77-4bb9-8331-9e8da47e7493.webp?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C4096%2C3072&amp;w=1500" data-embed="<iframe width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;315&quot; src=&quot;https://www.youtube.com/embed/8ZFlOWQ4Mck?si=LEC008YwiXxfZqci&quot; title=&quot;YouTube video player&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; allow=&quot;accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share&quot; referrerpolicy=&quot;strict-origin-when-cross-origin&quot; allowfullscreen></iframe>"><span class="video-button-placeholder" data-embed="<iframe width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;315&quot; src=&quot;https://www.youtube.com/embed/8ZFlOWQ4Mck?si=LEC008YwiXxfZqci&quot; title=&quot;YouTube video player&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; allow=&quot;accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share&quot; referrerpolicy=&quot;strict-origin-when-cross-origin&quot; allowfullscreen></iframe>">Video: WV House Democrats Press Conference - Monday, March 31, 2025WV House Democratic Whip Delegate Shawn Fluharty describes why the WV House GOP originated HB3516 last Friday (3/28/2025) - which reduces the time a victim of child rape &amp; abuse while under State of WV care can file a claim from 18 years to 2 years - hoping the public wouldn’t pay attention.

WV Democrats Condemn Republican Effort to Strip Protections from Victims of Child Sexual Abuse

Democratic Party Chair Questions President Biden's Decision to Pardon Those Charged with Political CorruptionFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEDecember 16, 2024Charleston, WV — While we recognize and applaud President Biden’s role in leading the nation through significant economic challenges — including passing landmark legislation that created record numbers of jobs and steering the country through post-COVID inflation without falling into a recession — we are deeply disappointed by his decision to commute the sentences of individuals convicted of public corruption.West Virginia Democratic Party Chair Mike Pushkin said, “Public corruption is a betrayal of trust. When officials abuse the power of their office for personal gain, they not only harm the communities they are supposed to serve, but they also erode faith in our government institutions. President Biden’s decision to grant clemency to three high-profile public officials convicted of corruption is a blow to the principle of accountability in public service.”Pushkin added, “Even more troubling, these kinds of pardons are exactly what we would expect from President-elect Donald Trump, not President Biden. Trump’s first term was marked by the use of his pardon power to absolve those convicted of public corruption. He pardoned Michael Flynn, Stephen K. Bannon, Kwame Kilpatrick, Rep. Randall Cunningham, and Rick Renzi — all convicted of corruption or serious abuses of public trust. By following this same path, President Biden has legitimized the idea that public officials who violate their oaths of office are above the law. Worse still, it will embolden Trump to issue even more pardons for political corruption if he returns to the White House.”Among the most egregious of Biden’s clemency decisions are the following: 1.		Michael Conahan — The former Pennsylvania judge who was at the center of the infamous “kids-for-cash” scandal. Conahan took kickbacks to sentence juveniles to for-profit detention centers, robbing children of their futures while lining his own pockets. His actions destroyed lives and shattered trust in the justice system. 	2.	Rita Crundwell — As the former comptroller of Dixon, Illinois, Crundwell embezzled nearly $54 million from her own town over two decades, the largest municipal fraud case in U.S. history. The impact on Dixon — a small, working-class community — was devastating. 	3.	Jimmy Dimora — A former Cuyahoga County Commissioner in Ohio, Dimora orchestrated one of the largest pay-to-play corruption schemes in Ohio history. He accepted $450,000 in bribes, including gambling trips, prostitutes, and even a stone-fired pizza oven. These were not cases of wrongful convictions or flawed trials. There were no serious doubts about the facts of these cases or the fairness of the judicial process. In each instance, the public officials in question were found guilty of clear, deliberate acts of corruption. These commutations do not serve the public good — they undermine it.Public servants hold a sacred trust, and that trust must be protected at all costs. These commutations send a dangerous message that if you betray that trust for personal profit, you might still walk free. That’s not justice, and it’s not accountability.Pushkin said, “We remain grateful for President Biden’s accomplishments in leading the country through an extraordinary period of economic recovery. But these decisions to commute the sentences of corrupt public officials send the wrong message to the American people. Integrity in public service must be non-negotiable, and West Virginians deserve to know that their public officials are held to the highest standards of accountability and justice.”###

WV Democratic Party Chair Questions Pardons

Background: <a href="https://www.wvdemocrats.com/news/remove-akers-genital-inspections" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">WV Democrats Demand Senate Remove J.B. Akers’ “Child Genital Inspection Amendment” from SB456</a>Update:WV House of Delegates concurs with State Senate removal of Akers' Amendment.Watch here:<span class="image video image-center" data-embed="<iframe width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;315&quot; src=&quot;https://www.youtube.com/embed/3r0SE2kmTKg?si=0DWAUI6F0PrTaFQf&quot; title=&quot;YouTube video player&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; allow=&quot;accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share&quot; referrerpolicy=&quot;strict-origin-when-cross-origin&quot; allowfullscreen></iframe>" style="width: 100%;"><img imageurl="https://run.imgix.net/7869f6cd-87f4-4d00-8eac-4771588dd2ec/83d0bbc8-7fd3-4e16-9418-1ecf13f45b66/83d0bbc8-7fd3-4e16-9418-1ecf13f45b66.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C1610%2C914&amp;w=1500" embedcode="<iframe width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;315&quot; src=&quot;https://www.youtube.com/embed/3r0SE2kmTKg?si=0DWAUI6F0PrTaFQf&quot; title=&quot;YouTube video player&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; allow=&quot;accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share&quot; referrerpolicy=&quot;strict-origin-when-cross-origin&quot; allowfullscreen></iframe>" align="center" alignwidth="50" src="https://run.imgix.net/7869f6cd-87f4-4d00-8eac-4771588dd2ec/83d0bbc8-7fd3-4e16-9418-1ecf13f45b66/83d0bbc8-7fd3-4e16-9418-1ecf13f45b66.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C1610%2C914&amp;w=1500" data-embed="<iframe width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;315&quot; src=&quot;https://www.youtube.com/embed/3r0SE2kmTKg?si=0DWAUI6F0PrTaFQf&quot; title=&quot;YouTube video player&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; allow=&quot;accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share&quot; referrerpolicy=&quot;strict-origin-when-cross-origin&quot; allowfullscreen></iframe>"><span class="video-button-placeholder" data-embed="<iframe width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;315&quot; src=&quot;https://www.youtube.com/embed/3r0SE2kmTKg?si=0DWAUI6F0PrTaFQf&quot; title=&quot;YouTube video player&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; allow=&quot;accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share&quot; referrerpolicy=&quot;strict-origin-when-cross-origin&quot; allowfullscreen></iframe>">Senate Bill 456 Bill History: <a href="https://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/bills_history.cfm?INPUT=456&amp;year=2025&amp;sessiontype=RS" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">https://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/bills_history.cfm?INPUT=456&amp;year=2025&amp;sessiontype=RS</a>

Update: WV House concurs removing Akers Amendment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEMay 1, 2025Charleston, WV – The West Virginia Democratic Party today called out Governor Patrick Morrisey for glaring hypocrisy following his recent comments regarding his criteria for vetoing legislation. Governor Morrisey, in a statement issued Monday, declared, "For the future, folks should know that if your bill costs taxpayers money and you haven't provided an offset for your proposed program, the odds of your initiative getting approved will be slim... Taxpayers must be respected!!!"Yet, the Governor’s bold talk about fiscal responsibility rings hollow given his own HOPE Voucher program—a costly scheme funneling millions of taxpayer dollars away from West Virginia public schools to fund out-of-state private schools, extracurricular activities, and leisure pursuits like jiujitsu, sports competitions, and dance classes."If Governor Morrisey is serious about respecting West Virginia taxpayers, then he should commit to fully funding West Virginia's public schools instead of diverting their funding to out-of-state institutions that lack transparency, accountability, and oversight," said West Virginia Democratic Party Chair Mike Pushkin. "It's the height of hypocrisy to demand fiscal offsets for desperately needed programs while simultaneously wasting taxpayer dollars on private schools and extracurricular activities for a select few. West Virginians deserve better than double-talk from their Governor."West Virginia Democrats urge Governor Morrisey to match his words with actions by investing in West Virginia’s public education system, prioritizing taxpayer dollars responsibly, and ending wasteful and unaccountable spending on private interests.###

Governor Morrisey's Veto Rationale Highlights His Hypocrisy on Taxpayer Dollars

<span class="image video image-center" data-embed="<iframe width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;315&quot; src=&quot;https://www.youtube.com/embed/qpv8MMsCTMQ?si=N8LuNsZV4r7G_2gM&quot; title=&quot;YouTube video player&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; allow=&quot;accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share&quot; referrerpolicy=&quot;strict-origin-when-cross-origin&quot; allowfullscreen></iframe>" style="width: 100%;"><img imageurl="https://run.imgix.net/7869f6cd-87f4-4d00-8eac-4771588dd2ec/10669d2b-6004-4fe3-bd56-1712175d44d1/10669d2b-6004-4fe3-bd56-1712175d44d1.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=11&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C2476%2C1236&amp;w=1500" embedcode="<iframe width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;315&quot; src=&quot;https://www.youtube.com/embed/qpv8MMsCTMQ?si=N8LuNsZV4r7G_2gM&quot; title=&quot;YouTube video player&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; allow=&quot;accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share&quot; referrerpolicy=&quot;strict-origin-when-cross-origin&quot; allowfullscreen></iframe>" align="center" alignwidth="50" src="https://run.imgix.net/7869f6cd-87f4-4d00-8eac-4771588dd2ec/10669d2b-6004-4fe3-bd56-1712175d44d1/10669d2b-6004-4fe3-bd56-1712175d44d1.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=11&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C2476%2C1236&amp;w=1500" data-embed="<iframe width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;315&quot; src=&quot;https://www.youtube.com/embed/qpv8MMsCTMQ?si=N8LuNsZV4r7G_2gM&quot; title=&quot;YouTube video player&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; allow=&quot;accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share&quot; referrerpolicy=&quot;strict-origin-when-cross-origin&quot; allowfullscreen></iframe>"><span class="video-button-placeholder" data-embed="<iframe width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;315&quot; src=&quot;https://www.youtube.com/embed/qpv8MMsCTMQ?si=N8LuNsZV4r7G_2gM&quot; title=&quot;YouTube video player&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; allow=&quot;accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share&quot; referrerpolicy=&quot;strict-origin-when-cross-origin&quot; allowfullscreen></iframe>">

WV House Democrats Press ConferenceMonday, March 17, 2025

Since the Legislature began its session in February, hundreds of West Virginians have lost their jobs—in Morgantown, Fairmont, Parkersburg, and Barbour County, among others—due to Republican policies at the federal level. The Republican supermajority has passed no significant legislation in West Virginia to address this crisis, which will only get worse based on the recently announced tariffs.<span class="image video image-center" data-embed="<iframe width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;315&quot; src=&quot;https://www.youtube.com/embed/NtLFeIE_MZ4?si=wYbQMj_Ozm-r6G2g&quot; title=&quot;YouTube video player&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; allow=&quot;accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share&quot; referrerpolicy=&quot;strict-origin-when-cross-origin&quot; allowfullscreen></iframe>" style="width: 95%;"><img imageurl="https://run.imgix.net/7869f6cd-87f4-4d00-8eac-4771588dd2ec/886f350f-babf-4d69-85e8-9838b7b95b20/886f350f-babf-4d69-85e8-9838b7b95b20.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C2300%2C1160&amp;w=1500" embedcode="<iframe width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;315&quot; src=&quot;https://www.youtube.com/embed/NtLFeIE_MZ4?si=wYbQMj_Ozm-r6G2g&quot; title=&quot;YouTube video player&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; allow=&quot;accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share&quot; referrerpolicy=&quot;strict-origin-when-cross-origin&quot; allowfullscreen></iframe>" align="center" alignwidth="47.5" src="https://run.imgix.net/7869f6cd-87f4-4d00-8eac-4771588dd2ec/886f350f-babf-4d69-85e8-9838b7b95b20/886f350f-babf-4d69-85e8-9838b7b95b20.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C2300%2C1160&amp;w=1500" data-embed="<iframe width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;315&quot; src=&quot;https://www.youtube.com/embed/NtLFeIE_MZ4?si=wYbQMj_Ozm-r6G2g&quot; title=&quot;YouTube video player&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; allow=&quot;accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share&quot; referrerpolicy=&quot;strict-origin-when-cross-origin&quot; allowfullscreen></iframe>"><span class="video-button-placeholder" data-embed="<iframe width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;315&quot; src=&quot;https://www.youtube.com/embed/NtLFeIE_MZ4?si=wYbQMj_Ozm-r6G2g&quot; title=&quot;YouTube video player&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; allow=&quot;accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share&quot; referrerpolicy=&quot;strict-origin-when-cross-origin&quot; allowfullscreen></iframe>">At this press conference, House Democrats took stock of the legislature’s missed opportunities and wasted time with fewer than ten days left in session.WHEN: Thursday, April 3 at 2:00 PMWHERE: State Capitol, Room 252

WVDP Legislators: Legislature Has Failed to Act Amid Job Losses in West Virginia

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEFebruary 10, 2025Charleston, WV – The West Virginia Democratic Party today expressed deep concern over the impending visit of Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to the U.S. Treasury Department’s facility in Parkersburg, a move that could jeopardize thousands of jobs in the region.According to recent reports, DOGE is set to arrive in Parkersburg tomorrow with plans to access the federal government’s central accounting system.Jeff Fox, Wood County Democratic Party Chair, emphasized the potential local impact:“Our community relies heavily on the employment provided by the U.S. Treasury Office here in Parkersburg. The prospect of DOGE’s intervention raises serious concerns about job security for our residents who have dedicated their careers to public service.”West Virginia Democratic Party Chair Mike Pushkin criticized the motives behind DOGE’s actions:“The so-called Department of Government Efficiency appears to be little more than a ‘Department of Score Settling,’ with Elon Musk targeting agencies and employees perceived as adversaries of President Trump. This initiative threatens not only the livelihoods of hardworking West Virginians but also the integrity of our public institutions.”The West Virginia Democratic Party is calling on Senator Shelley Moore Capito, Senator Jim Justice, Congresswoman Carol Miller, Congressman Riley Moore, and Governor Patrick Morrisey to use their influence with the Trump administration to call off this politically motivated witch hunt. If these elected officials truly care about West Virginia jobs, they must stand up to Trump and Musk instead of rubber-stamping their reckless and vindictive agenda.The West Virginia Democratic Party stands in solidarity with the federal employees in Parkersburg and across the state, advocating for the protection of their jobs and the essential services they provide.###

WVDP Condemns Elon Musk’s DOGE Initiative Threatening Jobs at U.S. Treasury Office in Parkersburg

WVDP House Dems Presser Day 57

<img src="https://run.imgix.net/7869f6cd-87f4-4d00-8eac-4771588dd2ec/ffe0ffac-b1a7-4715-b344-433081707fec/ffe0ffac-b1a7-4715-b344-433081707fec.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C1620%2C1620&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="center" alignwidth="50" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed">Please register to join with WV House and Senate Democrats this Sunday, May 4, at 8:00 PM.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/RBnuSUtCR3WSswOe_9nPxQ%23/registration&amp;sa=D&amp;source=calendar&amp;ust=1742830850426121&amp;usg=AOvVaw0xWUpWueIVY751T1eKgXDB" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Register to join the Zoom here:</a> <a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/RBnuSUtCR3WSswOe_9nPxQ#/registration" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/RBnuSUtCR3WSswOe_9nPxQ#/registration</a>This week we are accepting questions via email ahead of the Town Hall.Please send potential questions to:<a href="mailto:townhall@wvdemocrats.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">townhall@wvdemocrats.com</a>

WVDP Legislative Team Post-Session Recap

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 23, 2025Charleston, WV — The West Virginia Democratic Party criticized the Trump Administration’s decision to deny individual and public assistance to seven West Virginia counties devastated by February’s historic flooding, calling it a disgraceful abandonment of our state in a moment of urgent need. Even more astonishing, Governor Morrisey responded not with outrage or resolve—but with gratitude.“Instead of fighting to defend you, Governor Morrisey released a statement doing what he knows best—puckering up to the current administration,” said House Minority Whip Shawn Fluharty (D-Ohio). “We need assistance on the ground. Governor Morrisey should appeal this decision immediately and stand up for our state.”The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) announcement leaves communities in Cabell, Kanawha, Lincoln, Logan, and Wayne counties without the vital federal disaster relief they need to recover from washed-out roads, destroyed homes, and dislocated families. Residents and local officials alike are left wondering: where is the leadership?West Virginia Democratic Party Vice-Chair Teresa Toriseva said, “This is a disgrace. When West Virginia cries out for help, we need our leaders to demand action, not bow down to party loyalty. Patrick Morrisey has once again shown us who he works for—and it’s not the people of West Virginia. It’s time to stop the bootlicking and start fighting for the folks who sent you to Charleston.”Toriseva added: “Senator Capito, Senator Justice, and Congresswoman Carol Miller must stop hiding behind their party affiliations and make a formal, public request for President Trump and his administration to reverse this disastrous decision. West Virginians need help—not more political theater. If you can’t stand up to your party when your people are suffering, then what good are you to the people of this state?”House Minority Leader Sean Hornbuckle (D-Cabell) said, “While we're appreciative of any assistance, I can confidently say that it isn't enough. This current administration has dragged its feet in helping West Virginians and instead of playing nice, Governor Morrisey needs to stand up and demand more for us. My backyard here in Cabell has been hit hard and we need more help like other areas of the state as well. We also need the vision to work proactively to prevent flooding issues. I welcome our Governor and everyone in his party to work together on this pressing issue for all West Virginians. Our state deserves to be the main priority, not politics.The West Virginia Democratic Party is calling on Governor Morrisey to immediately appeal FEMA’s decision and to request a personal meeting with FEMA leadership and President Trump to advocate for the families and communities abandoned by this denial of federal aid.###

West Virginia Democrats Slam Trump Administration and Governor Morrisey for Abandoning Flood Victims

Charleston, WV – West Virginia Democratic leaders today sharply criticized Governor Patrick Morrissey for neglecting to appoint a qualified Commissioner for the Bureau for Public Health and failing to ensure active participation by key cabinet secretaries in critical legislative discussions.Justin Davis currently serves as Interim Commissioner of the Bureau for Public Health, despite lacking medical credentials or a public health degree. Davis, whose academic background is in political science, previously worked for Barry Dunn, a tax consulting firm."Governor Morrissey's refusal to appoint a qualified Commissioner is not just negligent—it's irresponsible and dangerous," said West Virginia Democratic Party Chair Mike Pushkin. "West Virginians are paying the price for his political games. We're facing some of the worst health outcomes in America, yet our Bureau for Public Health is being run by a political appointee with no public health expertise."Democrats assert Governor Morrissey is delaying the appointment intentionally, pending passage of controversial legislation aimed at dismantling West Virginia's effective childhood immunization laws.Delegate Anitra Hamilton, Minority Vice Chair of the House Health Committee, expressed concern, saying, "It's clear Governor Morrissey knows no credible doctor or public health professional would testify in favor of weakening immunization protections. Putting Justin Davis in this role is like a dentist recommending sugary soda instead of toothpaste. It's absurd, and it's endangering the health of our children and communities."Adding to concerns, Secretary of Health Arvin Singh and Secretary of Human Services Alex J. Mayer have been noticeably absent from legislative hearings. Singh's limited appearances have primarily involved lobbying for Certificate of Need policies, reflecting his past role as a Maryland hospital executive. Secretary Mayer, meanwhile, appears preoccupied with his recent relocation from South Dakota, neglecting his responsibilities during a critical legislative session."West Virginia is number one in preventable deaths and near the top in health insurance premiums," Pushkin added. "We can't afford a public health system without leadership. We can't afford absentee cabinet secretaries during a health crisis. West Virginians deserve leadership that shows up and puts their well-being first."West Virginia Democrats urge immediate action from Governor Morrissey to appoint qualified leadership for the Bureau for Public Health and demand active participation from his cabinet in addressing West Virginia's ongoing health crisis.

WV Democrats Blast Governor Morrissey for Dangerous Neglect of State Health Leadership

WV Democratic Party Condemns $5 Million Giveaway to Radical Ohio Catholic College While West Virginians Struggle with Water CrisisFor Immediate ReleaseDecember 30, 2024Charleston, WV – West Virginia Democratic Party Chair Mike Pushkin today criticized the West Virginia Water Development Authority’s (WDA) decision to allocate $5 million of taxpayer funds to a radical Catholic college in Ohio while communities like Weirton face severe water crises, including rationing and boiling water due to failing local infrastructure.“This decision is an insult to every West Virginian who is struggling to access clean drinking water,” said Pushkin. “While families in Weirton are boiling water just to get through the day, Jim Justice’s administration is shipping millions of taxpayer dollars out of state to fund a far-right religious institution that opposes basic freedoms and equality. It’s a disgraceful misuse of public funds.”The $5 million allocation, drawn from an infrastructure fund intended to serve West Virginia residents, will support the establishment of the college of St. Joseph the Worker, a private Catholic college in Ohio. The college’s backers include a network of radical Catholic figures, such as Scott Hahn and his wife Kimberley, who oppose all forms of contraception, calling it “contrary to God’s law.” Other key advisors include Fr. Donald Calloway, who shares Hahn’s extremist views, and Matt Fradd, who has publicly declared that “contraceptives are bad for everyone.”Pushkin raised alarm over the use of taxpayer dollars to support a college that plans to establish a think tank aimed at influencing public policy, warning that West Virginians’ hard-earned money could fund efforts to undermine fundamental rights, including access to contraception.“It’s not inconceivable that West Virginia taxpayer dollars will be used to bankroll a far-right agenda that seeks to prohibit birth control and further restrict women’s health care in our state,” said Pushkin. “This is not only a gross misuse of public funds but also a direct threat to the rights and freedoms of West Virginians.”Pushkin pointed to the stark contrast between this out-of-state giveaway and the urgent infrastructure needs within West Virginia.“Weirton and other communities are literally running out of water, yet the Justice administration can find $5 million to send to a college in Ohio with a radical, far-right agenda,” Pushkin said. “West Virginia tax dollars should support clean drinking water and functional infrastructure, not funding for out-of-state pet projects.”The WDA decision follows a pattern of misplaced priorities under Governor Jim Justice’s leadership, where taxpayer dollars are funneled into questionable projects while essential services for West Virginians go underfunded.The West Virginia Democratic Party is calling on Governor Justice and the WDA to reverse this allocation and redirect the funds to urgently needed water infrastructure projects in West Virginia.“We have families without clean water, teachers without raises, and public employees paying more for health insurance,” Pushkin said. “The Justice administration should be ashamed of this decision and start putting West Virginians first.”###

Democrats fight for Working Families in West Virginia!

WVDP Condemns Morrisey’s Dangerous Exec Order Undermining Public School Immunization Requirements

WVDP Legislative Team Post-Session Recap

Governor Morrisey's Veto Rationale Highlights His Hypocrisy on Taxpayer Dollars

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