ELKINS — On Monday, former State Senator Robert Karnes (R) expressed that he is currently “weighing the options” for a state senatorial run in 2020.
After hearing several rumors from multiple political insiders, Sen. Karnes was asked by Mountaineer Journal if he is considering a return to the state senate.
In an exclusive statement to Mountaineer Journal, Karnes stated:
“I have had emails, phone calls and supporters at grocery store checkout lines asking me to run. We’ve accomplished some great things in the years since Republicans gained majorities in the legislature.
I am concerned with our current senators who seem more inclined to help the minority fight progress instead of continuing the pro job reforms we started in 2014. Even so, running for office is a big decision. My family and I are weighing the options. I am aware the window to file is closing rapidly.”
While serving as a state senator, Karnes was a staunch supporter of the Second Amendment. He was supportive of concealed carry laws that “reduced the burden on law-abiding citizens” and opposed “any form of monthly gun ‘allowance,'” which would limit the right to purchase firearms.
Additionally, he was a strong advocate for pro-life causes, consistently endorsed by West Virginians for Life, and repetitively defended Religious Liberty.
If Karnes runs for the position, he would serve as a primary challenger against Sen. John Pitsenbarger (R), who was appointed to fill the vacancy of Sen. Greg Boso (R).