Expert speaks on odds of electing a Democratic governor in West Virginia

HUNTINGTON, WV (WOWK) — It’s been eight years since West Virginians elected a Democratic governor. With the majority of the state voting Republican, it begs the question: “What are the odds of the state electing a Democratic candidate?”

2024’s gubernatorial Democratic candidate and Huntington Mayor Steve Williams hopes to break the eight-year-long streak.

“There are three priorities. Jobs, jobs, and jobs. We have to build infrastructure. We have to build broadband where no matter where we drive across the state, we have a cell signal,” Williams says explaining some of his campaign goals.

Williams’ Republican opponent is Attorney General Patrick Morrisey.

During his primary election victory speech, Morrisey said, “I am going to appeal to everyone who wants to put West Virginia where we are growing our standards. Taking on the craziness of the woke left and what’s coming from Washington.”

Morrisey on Tuesday received 33% of the votes overall, making it a close race with Moore Capito and Chris Miller.

Marshall University Political Science Professor Dr. Marybeth Beller says she believes low voter turnout at the polls played a part in this but other factors could lead to the majority voting for Williams.

“This tells me with only a preliminary number of 30%, that the Republicans were not excited about the gubernatorial race,” Beller said referring to the percentage of voters who hit the polls for the primary election.

However, even with this information, what are the odds a “red state” will elect a Democratic governor? Beller says they’re higher than some might think.

“I think it’s very possible. Both candidates have successful records in what they have done and it’s going to be an exciting election,” Beller says.

West Virginia’s general election will be held on Nov. 5, 2024.

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