CANDIDATES FOR WEST VIRGINIA STATE SENATE
WVE awardees featured here were asked what inspired them to run for the West Virginia State Senate.
Joseph Eddy SS Class of 2017 R- Ohio, 01
West Virginia is at a crossroads. The decisions we make in the next few years will shape whether our state thrives or struggles for the next generation. I’ m not running out of ambition— I’ m running out of purpose. After more than 45 years in energy, manufacturing and economic
development, I understand what it takes to create and sustain good jobs, build businesses and keep our communities strong. My whole career has been about building things— companies, jobs and partnerships— and I’ ve seen up close how bad policy and political games can stall investment, weaken our schools and drive families and opportunities out of our great state.
Steven Eshenaur D. O., MBA SS Class of 2018 & HCHOF Class of 2025 R- Kanawha, 08
Serving in the West Virginia State Senate is a natural continuation of a lifetime of service that started when I enlisted in the West Virginia Army National Guard at age 18. West Virginia has many challenges, particularly a lack of good paying jobs, that need addressed by proven servant
leaders who run toward the challenge, not away from it. West Virginia is in desperate need of opportunities for our current and future generations. As a father and grandfather, many of our children have moved out of state to find a job. My goal is to create opportunities in our state that will bring them home.
Jason Harshbarger YG Class of 2018 & SS Class of 2025 R- Ritchie, 03
As a former member of the West Virginia House of Delegates, I have gained a comprehensive understanding of the legislative process. This experience, along with 30 years of business and energy industry knowledge, will enable me to be a strong advocate for the district and its constituents. My background is marked by
significant professional experience and a proven record in legislative and policy matters and community service. I am well-versed in the needs and priorities of the district, and I’ m prepared to address them effectively. Fueled by passion, knowledge and experience, I look forward to meaningfully representing and serving the Senate’ s third district covering Pleasants, Ritchie, Wirt and Wood counties.
Chris Miller YG Class of 2015 R- Cabell, 05
West Virginia has a history of extraction, and we don’ t have much to show for it. With all of our natural resources— coal, natural gas, rare earth elements and water— there isn’ t a reason why we aren’ t the richest state in the country per capita. Our greatest export right now isn’ t coal or natural gas— it’ s our educated kids. We are also declining in population, which puts all of West Virginia at risk for the future. I’ ve made a career out of buying and fixing businesses. We are going to create an economy that thrives and brings all our kids back home.
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