Two Democrats will serve in the West Virginia Senate after Tuesday’s election results. (Will Price | West Virginia Legislative Photography)
The Republican super hold in the West Virginia Senate grew on Tuesday with the loss of a Democrat seat in the 5th district, which includes Cabell and Wayne counties. Two Democratic senators will serve in the upper chamber after Tuesday night.
Democrat Ric Griffith, who is currently in the House of Delegates, lost the election to Republican challenger Scott Fuller, according to Associated Press results. Fuller will replace Sen. Bob Plymale, D-Wayne, who didn’t seek reelection.
The Senate had just three Democrats and 31 Republicans ahead of Election Day.
Joey Garcia, a Democrat House of Delegates member, won his election to the Senate, defeating opponent Republican Rebecca Polis. He replaces Sen. Mike Caputo, D-Marion, who is retiring.
“I feel honored that the people of Marion and Monongalia County have trusted me to represent them at the West Virginia Capitol,” Garcia said. “I am excited to work across the aisle for policies that help all people stay, rebuild and succeed in West Virginia. Good ideas know no party.
He’ll join Senate Minority Leader Mike Woelfel, whose seat was not up this election cycle.
Seven Senate races with Republican candidates were uncontested.
Republican Attorney General Patrick Morrisey easily won the governor’s race, and the House will remain in hefty Republican control.
In the House, where all seats were up for election, 43 races — mostly Republicans — were uncontested.
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