WEST VIRGINIA (LOOTPRESS) – A developing divide within the Republican Party in West Virginia is emerging ahead of the 2026 primary election, as Governor Patrick Morrisey and U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito have endorsed opposing candidates in the state’s 10th Senatorial District.
Morrisey recently announced that he will be making endorsements for legislative races, emphasizing a push for what he described as “change agents” within the party.
As part of that effort, he endorsed political newcomer Jonathan Comer over incumbent Republican Senator Vince Deeds.
In a statement posted on social media, Morrisey said, “That’s why I will be making a series of endorsements for the upcoming primary and will be pressing for the election of a number of fresh faces to the House and Senate.”
He added, “In the Senate’s 10th district, I am endorsing Pastor Jonathan Comer… He’s the change agent we need in Charleston to lift our state up and protect our children.”
Morrisey also sharply criticized some current Republican lawmakers, stating, “Many elected legislators claim to be Republicans, but in practice are RINOs— Republicans in name only.”
The following day, Capito publicly backed Deeds in a video showing the two together, signaling support for the incumbent.
In a caption accompanying the video, Deeds wrote, “I am honored to receive the endorsement of Senator Capito. She has been a strong advocate for our district, playing an instrumental role in advancing initiatives that benefit our communities. I look forward to continue working with her delivering meaningful results for those we serve.”
The dueling endorsements highlight differing approaches within the state GOP, with Morrisey advocating for new candidates aligned with his policy priorities, while Capito has chosen to support an incumbent lawmaker.
The 10th Senatorial District, which includes Fayette, Nicholas, Greenbrier, Summers, and Monroe counties, is expected to be a closely watched race in the upcoming May 12 primary as voters weigh competing visions within the party.
