MORGANTOWN — On Thursday, West Virginia State Sen. Charles Clements (R-Wetzel) announced that he will not seek re-election in 2026.
“It has been one of the biggest honors of my life to serve the people of West Virginia in the state Senate,” Clements said in a statement. “As a delegate years ago and as a senator for the last several years, I have worked hard for the people of my home, Wetzel County, and our surrounding area. I am proud of the work we have done to improve our state’s economy, begin to fix our infrastructure and improve our schools. While a lot has been accomplished, there is still a lot to do.”
Clements said he will serve out the remainder of his term.
“As many of you know, I have had several health challenges over the years,” he said. “I feel fine today, but I want to be able to spend more time with my family with the remaining time God blesses me with here on this earth. I would like to thank my family for supporting me over the years, especially my wife and children. I have made so many good friends throughout the district and in Charleston. West Virginia is a beautiful place, but her people are what truly shine the most.”
Clements said the next few years will be pivotal for the direction of the state.
“It has been difficult to watch the state Senate move in a different direction recently, after having made so much progress over the last decade,” he said.
Clements endorsed Glen Dale Republican Robert “Bob” Dobkin, who announced his candidacy for the seat earlier Thursday.
“Thanks again to everyone who has been part of this journey with me,” Clements said. “I know that West Virginia’s best years are ahead of us.”
The 2nd District includes all of three counties and parts of three others, including western and northern Monongalia County to the Preston County line, as well as western Marion County.
