Don Blankenship, the former CEO and convicted felon, has thrown his hat into the ring for the Democratic nomination for West Virginia’s Senate seat. Blankenship, infamous for his role in the Upper Big Branch mine explosion that killed 29 miners, faces an uphill battle. He is perhaps best known for his time as the chief executive of Massey Energy, where he was convicted of conspiring to violate mine safety laws. Democrats, already concerned about their chances in West Virginia, a state that heavily favored Trump in 2020, are apprehensive about Blankenship’s candidacy. His controversial past and lack of success in previous political campaigns make him an unpopular choice among voters and could damage the party’s chances. Party leaders, including Governor Jim Justice, have endorsed Wheeling Mayor Glenn Elliott, a pro-union candidate with a more traditional Democratic background.
Blankenship, however, believes he represents the true values of West Virginians, despite his checkered past and opposition from the party establishment. He argues that the state’s Democratic voters have abandoned the party because they no longer align with its policies. The Democratic primary will also feature Marine Corps veteran Zach Shrewsbury, who emphasizes the importance of green energy and workers’ rights.
The Republican race includes Justice, who switched parties from Democrat to Republican after being recruited by Joe Manchin, and Rep. Alex Mooney, a staunch Trump supporter. Justice has faced criticism over safety violations and unpaid taxes at his mining companies, and has been sued by retirees over prescription drug coverage interruptions.
The upcoming election will undoubtedly be contentious, with candidates representing a wide range of perspectives and policy positions. Blankenship’s candidacy adds an unpredictable element to the race, and it remains to be seen how his past will impact his chances of success. The primary election will be held on May 14th, 2024, and the general election will take place on November 5th, 2024.
