West Virginia Republicans are facing a unique challenge in the upcoming primary elections as candidates vie for support while navigating the contentious issue of the 2020 election results. In a state known for its loyalty to former President Donald Trump, acknowledging President Joe Biden’s victory has become a litmus test for GOP candidates.
The race is heating up as candidates for governor and Congress toe the line on election denialism, with some openly embracing the false claim that the election was stolen. Secretary of State Mac Warner, a candidate for governor, has firmly stated his belief that the election was rigged, despite numerous court rulings and audits confirming Biden’s win.
The issue has divided the Republican field, with some candidates like Attorney General Patrick Morrisey refusing to give a direct answer on Biden’s victory but citing “irregularities” in the election. Meanwhile, former state lawmaker Derrick Evans, who spent time in prison for his role in the Jan. 6 Capitol riot, has escalated attacks on his primary rival, calling her a “commie RINO” and an “undocumented Democrat.”
As the primary approaches, the GOP candidates in West Virginia are aligning themselves with Trump and his base, with some even touting their support for the former president as a badge of honor. The outcome of the primary will not only shape the future of the Republican Party in the state but also reflect the ongoing influence of Trump and his false claims about the 2020 election.