Inside the WV Senate primary: Out-of-state money, Republicans’ war and governor who inserted himself

By: Amelia Ferrell Knisely

Outlets: West Virginia Watch

Published: April 28, 2026

Words: 1,615

Last Updated: 2 months ago

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The West Virginia Senate, handily under Republican control with just two Democratic members, is the embodiment of an unusual election season. Nineteen Senate seats are on ballots across the state.

“Special interests are going to spend $2 million trying to buy the state Senate,” said veteran West Virginia Republican political strategist Greg Thomas. Outside spending in a Senate primary is usually around $100,000, he said.

Political groups, fueled by out-of-state donors, have pumped hundreds …

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