CHARLESTON – Kanawha District Judge Jennifer Bailey has filed pre-nomination papers to seek re-election.
Bailey filed the paperwork on Nov. 28 with the West Virginia Secretary of State’s office.
She has been a district judge since 2002, and was elected to this position in 2004, 2008 and 2016. In 2008, 2013, 2017 and 2022, she served as Chief Judge of the Kanawha County Circuit Court.
Jennifer Bailey | courtwv.gov
“I am happy to announce that I am running for re-election,” Bailey said in a press release. “It is an absolute honor and privilege to serve the people of Kanawha County. I’m proud of my service on the bench.
“I look forward to continuing to work hard for the people of Kanawha County.”
Bailey grew up in Belle and graduated in 1980 from West Virginia University College of Law. He has over 40 years of experience as a lawyer and judge. In 2017, she was appointed chair of the West Virginia Regional Opioid Initiative.
In September, Ashley Deem announced plans to run for Bailey’s seat, before Bailey announced her plans. Deem currently serves as an associate clerk for the West Virginia Intermediate Court of Appeals.
On Tuesday, Deem said her plan had not changed.
“When I filed to run a few months ago, I assumed Jennifer Bailey would run for another term,” Deem told The West Virginia Record. “Many people said she would retire after decades in office, appointed by a liberal Democratic governor more than 20 years ago.
“I am the only Republican running for this nonpartisan seat. Kanawha County will have to choose between a fresh direction or the ways of the past.
“I expected a spectacular victory when I announced it in September, and I still expect a spectacular victory. Nothing has changed.”
All circuit court judge positions are on the ballot for the 2024 primary election. Because judicial races are nonpartisan, they will be decided in the May 14 primary election.
