GRAFTON — West Virginia Senate Majority Whip Jay Taylor announced he is seeking reelection, pointing to his conservative voting record, leadership role in the chamber and focus on issues affecting rural communities.
“It has been an honor to serve the people of our district and to fight every day for conservative values and common sense,” Taylor told The Inter-Mountain. “We’ve delivered real results for West Virginians, strengthened conservative leadership at the Capitol, and protected our rural communities — but there is still important work ahead.”
Taylor, a Republican, has held the majority whip position during a period of unified GOP control in state government. In that role, he has worked closely with Senate leadership and was involved in building support for Senate President Randy Smith, a former coal miner.
“Our leadership team reflects the people we represent,” Taylor said. “Randy Smith’s story is West Virginia’s story, and I was proud to help ensure our Senate leadership reflects that.”
Taylor also highlighted coordination between legislative leaders and Gov. Patrick Morrisey, saying cooperation has helped advance conservative priorities during recent sessions.
“When Republicans work together, West Virginia wins,” Taylor said. “The Senate leadership team and Governor Morrisey have worked closely to move conservative policies forward, protect taxpayers, and push back against federal overreach.”
During his time in the Senate, Taylor has sponsored and supported legislation aimed at reducing regulations and expanding access to health care, particularly in rural areas. Measures he cited include updates to the state’s optometry laws intended to improve access to eye care, as well as legislation expanding the scope of practice for certified registered nurse anesthetists.
Taylor has also made opposition to school consolidation a central part of his platform, arguing that long bus rides and school closures harm rural communities and should not be mandated by state or federal authorities.
“Our kids shouldn’t spend hours a day on a bus, and our rural towns shouldn’t lose their schools because of one-size-fits-all mandates,” Taylor said. “Strong local schools are essential to strong communities. I’m running for reelection because West Virginia is worth fighting for,” Taylor said. “I will continue to stand up for our values, our communities, and the people who sent me to Charleston.”
According to Taylor, his reelection campaign will emphasize support for rural education, access to health care, fiscal conservatism, law enforcement and limits on government authority.
