CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Democrats made significant gains in the West Virginia Legislature during Tuesday’s general election, flipping several Republican-held seats in both the House of Delegates and State Senate, although Republicans will still maintain a supermajority in both chambers.
According to unofficial election results, Democrats increased their representation in the 100-member House of Delegates from nine seats to 21, a net gain of 12 seats.
In the 34-member State Senate, Democrats increased their representation from two seats to four, gaining two additional seats.
Combined, Democrats gained 14 seats across the Legislature, increasing their representation from 11 to 25 lawmakers.
Locally, Fayette County educator Mathew Anderson was among the Democrats who flipped a Republican-held seat, winning the House of Delegates race in the 50th District.
The seat was previously held by former Republican Delegate Elliott Pritt, who is currently in custody facing child sexual exploitation charges.
Pritt’s criminal case has drawn attention to the district, making the race particularly notable in southern West Virginia. The charges against Pritt remain allegations unless proven in court.
Despite the Democratic gains, Republicans will continue to hold substantial majorities in both chambers.
Republicans are expected to control 79 seats in the House of Delegates, compared to 21 held by Democrats. In the State Senate, Republicans will hold 30 seats, while Democrats will hold four.
The results represent a substantial improvement for Democrats, who entered the election with some of their lowest levels of representation in the Legislature.
The newly elected lawmakers will take office ahead of the 2027 legislative session.
Election results remain unofficial until certified by election officials.
