CHARLESTON — Sen. Tom Willis (R-Berkeley, 15), has been appointed chairman of the powerful Senate Judiciary Committee, Senate President Randy Smith (R-Preston, 14) announced Monday. The appointment takes effect immediately.
The chairmanship became vacant after former Judiciary Chair Mike Stuart left the Legislature to serve as chief counsel at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Before Stuart, the committee was led by Charles Trump, who now sits on the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals.
Under Sen. Stuart, Willis previously served as the committee’s vice chairman during the most recent legislative session.
The Judiciary Committee is widely considered the Senate’s most influential committee, responsible for reviewing the bulk of legislation dealing with changes to state law. Willis previously served as the committee’s vice chairman during the most recent regular session.
“Judiciary is one of our busiest and most important committees, and I knew that I needed a strong, reliable leader to fill that role,” Sen. Smith told WV MetroNews. “His extensive knowledge and background made him a natural fit. I am honored that he was willing to step up and take on this challenge, and I am confident he’s dedicated to making the lives of West Virginians and their families better.”
Willis was elected to the State Senate last year after unseating then-Senate President Craig Blair in the Republican primary. A former U.S. Army Green Beret, Willis is an attorney and a member of the West Virginia National Guard.
Earlier this year, Willis announced he is running for the U.S. Senate in 2026, when Sen. Shelley Moore Capito’s seat is next up for election.
In a statement posted to social media, Willis said he was “deeply honored” to be chosen for the leadership role.
“As Judiciary Chair, I remain committed to continuing my public service to the people of West Virginia, a journey that began 25 years ago when I joined the West Virginia National Guard in 2000,” Willis wrote. “Although I am a declared candidate for the U.S. Senate in 2026 because I believe it is time for new direction and fresh leadership, I want to assure the people of West Virginia that I will give my full dedication and energy to my responsibilities as Judiciary Chair.”
He added that he looks forward to working with lawmakers to “strengthen economic prosperity, improve educational outcomes, and safeguard the personal liberties of all West Virginians.”
