West Virginia Press Association
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Mike Woelfel (D-Cabell) has been re-elected to lead the Minority Caucus of the West Virginia Senate. Senator-Elect Joey Garcia (D-Marion) will serve as Assistant Minority Leader.
Woelfel and Garcia shared their determination to work with the majority party members and congratulated Senator Randy Smith, the Republican candidate for Senate President, on his election inside his own caucus.
“I think we share a few similar priorities, such as a focus on our small businesses and an all-of-the-above energy strategy,” said Woelfel. “Obviously, there will be points on which we see things differently, but I believe we can work together productively.”
Garcia echoed those comments. “As Democrats, we believe that all people should have the opportunity to stay, rebuild, and succeed in West Virginia, and we will use our leverage and voice to stand up for what’s right,” he said.
The Democratic caucus also affirmed their support for everyday workers. “It’s fair to pay a decent day’s wage for a decent day’s work,” said Woelfel. “We will fight to bring in companies who want to invest in good-paying jobs for West Virginians.”
“We agree that the focus should be on bringing more jobs to West Virginia, rather than the divisive issues,” said Garcia.
The West Virginia Senate now contains only two Democrats in its 34 members.
