Justice threatens GOP showdown in West Virginia
The Republican senator is considering a run for his old job, which would pit him against incumbent GOP Gov. Patrick Morrisey.
West Virginia Republican Senator Jim Justice is contemplating a bid for the governor's office in 2028, potentially sparking a rivalry with incumbent Governor Patrick Morrisey. Justice expressed his contemplation to Semafor, yet quickly affirmed his dedication to his current Senate duties and his support for Morrisey, stating, "I want him to do great, I really do."
Despite this, Justice acknowledged his longing for West Virginia's prosperity and the nation's well-being. West Virginia, known for its politics of intensity and prominent figures, holds the potential for a high-stakes race. Republicans initially lured Justice from the Democratic Party to challenge former Senator Joe Manchin in 2024, a campaign Manchin ultimately declined.
Morrisey rebounded from a 2018 defeat by winning the governorship in 2024 after a competitive primary. Morrisey's ally mentioned Justice's several weaknesses and his recent financial struggles, including a lack of funds for a tough primary and family business turmoil. However, the ally also reported that Justice is encouraged by West Virginians to make a run for the governorship.
Manchin, who had flirted with a gubernatorial run in the past, indicated that Justice is more likely to enter the race than not, according to GOP sources. Manchin recently expressed his focus on the upcoming election rather than future ones.
Written by urgent.news from Semafor's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
