WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. Jim Justice is seriously considering a 2028 Republican primary challenge against West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey, potentially setting up a major fight within the state GOP. Justice, who served two terms as governor before winning a Senate seat in 2024, has been discussing a possible challenge with political figures and donors, according to people familiar with his plans.
Justice confirmed Thursday to WV MetroNews that he is considering a campaign, saying, “We’ll make a decision and make it quickly.”
A Justice challenge would put the former governor directly against Morrisey, with the two Republicans already having a history of political friction. Justice endorsed Moore Capito over Morrisey in the 2024 Republican primary, while Morrisey has since clashed with members of the party’s more moderate wing. The tension between Justice and Morrisey spilled into public view last month after Justice finalized a deal to sell a controlling interest in The Greenbrier. Morrisey made mention of the resort’s financial situation, causing Justice to accuse the governor of taking political shots.
Morrisey’s campaign has about $1.3 million in cash on hand, according to state records, while the Club for Growth has indicated it would support Morrisey if he faces a primary challenge. Justice has not formally entered the race, but his discussions about a campaign have already put a potential Republican primary showdown at the center of West Virginia’s 2028 political landscape.
