WV Gubernatorial Debate

Gubernatorial Debate: A contrast between a West Virginia Public Servant and a Washington Lobbyist

Charleston, WV -- Last night (Oct 27th), West Virginia voters witnessed the stark contrast between a public servant who has dedicated his career to this state and a Washington lobbyist who’s spent years profiting off corporate interests. Huntington Mayor Steve Williams stood tall as the only candidate with a real vision for West Virginia’s future, while Attorney General Patrick Morrisey once again showed he’s out of touch with the needs of our people.

As West Virginia Democratic Party Chair Mike Pushkin said, “Patrick Morrisey was born in New York, raised in New Jersey, and got rich in Washington, D.C., being a corporate ***** for the pharmaceutical industry. Long ago he sold his soul to the same corporate interests, that take our money and then break their promises. Just like many of his out-of-state corporate contributors, Patrick Morrisey is using West Virginia for his personal gain.”  

In the debate, Patrick Morrisey doubled down on his dangerous agenda, pledging to divert even more money from our public schools to fund private schools with zero accountability to West Virginia taxpayers. His plan to close more public schools would force longer bus rides for our children, disrupting their education and devastating our communities.

When it comes to healthcare, Morrisey’s solution to the PEIA deficit is clear: reach even deeper into the pockets of hard-working educators by raising health insurance premiums while cutting their benefits.  “As Attorney General, Patrick Morrisey sued to dismantle the ACA which provides coverage for hundreds of thousands of West Virginian's, including those with pre-existing conditions who couldn't otherwise afford health insurance,” added Pushkin. 

And on reproductive freedom, Morrisey revealed his disdain for democracy by refusing to put this critical issue on the ballot and let the people decide—even though this is a proposal backed by former President Donald Trump.

Patrick Morrisey is wrong on the issues and wrong for West Virginia. West Virginians deserve a governor who will stand up for their interests, not sell them out to the highest corporate bidder.