CHARLESTON, WV (WOWK) – The campaign for Secretary of State is picking up steam in West Virginia. And given the crowded field, Tuesday’s primary could be very competitive.
This race has been somewhat overshadowed by the governor and U.S. Senate races, but now it’s getting some attention.
The race for secretary of state pits longtime Putnam County Clerk Brian Wood against former Eastern Panhandle delegate Ken Reed.
Also in the race are former Rep. Doug Skaff, who was a Democrat but switched parties, and former state Republican Party Chairman Kris Warner.
The office is open because current Secretary Mac Warner has decided to run for governor.
The Secretary of State has two primary responsibilities: overseeing state elections and registering and licensing recent businesses in West Virginia.
“For a new company, LG NOVA, or someone else, Berkshire Hathaway. To come to West Virginia, they need to know that our elections are fair and honest,” said Kris Warner, (R) candidate for WV Secretary of State.
“The Secretary of State Office and its business portal are your front door to starting your business in West Virginia. As you know, I had the opportunity to travel the country with Speaker Hanshaw inviting companies to choose West Virginia. The Secretary of State’s Office plays an important role in this,” said Doug Skaff, (R) candidate for WV Secretary of State.
“The Secretary of State has many responsibilities, and the County Clerk has many responsibilities, and as County Clerk you have payroll, you have your elections. You have your record room. They help with budgeting,” said Clerk Brian Wood, (R) candidate for WV Secretary of State.
“I want to stay out of the business. I’ve worked with the Secretary of State’s office for 25 years, so I think there are a lot of little things that could be done to help,” said Ken Reed, (R) candidate for WV Secretary of State.
Whichever Republican wins the race for secretary of state will face longtime South Charleston attorney Thornton Cooper, the Democrat in November’s election.
Whoever is elected secretary of state will serve on the state’s six-member WV Board of Public Works.
