The Republican superpower in the West Virginia Senate grew Tuesday with the Democratic loss of a seat in the 5th District, which includes Cabell and Wayne counties. Two Democratic senators will be in the upper house after Tuesday evening.
According to Associated Press results, Democrat Ric Griffith, who currently sits in the House of Representatives, lost the election to his Republican challenger Scott Fuller. Fuller will replace Sen. Bob Plymale, D-Wayne, who did not seek re-election.
The Senate had only three Democrats and 31 Republicans before Election Day.
Joey Garcia, a Democratic House member, won his election to the Senate, defeating his opponent, Republican Rebecca Polis. He replaces Sen. Mike Caputo, D-Marion, who is retiring.
“I am honored that the people of Marion and Monongalia County have trusted me to represent them at the West Virginia Capitol,” Garcia said. “I look forward to working across borders on policies that assist all people stay, rebuild and thrive in West Virginia. Good ideas don’t have a party.
He will join Senate Minority Leader Mike Woelfel, whose seat was not open this election cycle.
Seven Senate races with Republican candidates were uncontestedD
Republican Attorney General Patrick Morrisey easily won the governor’s raceand the House of Representatives will remain under mighty Republican control.
In the House of Representatives, where all seats were up for election, 43 races – mostly Republican – were uncontested.
