West Virginia Republican Gov. Jim Justice has declared that he will postpone his swearing-in as a U.S. Senator, thus avoiding a rapid succession of four governors within a 10-day span due to concurrent changes in leadership in Charleston’s legislature.
This move temporarily reduces the GOP’s Senate majority to two seats instead of three. Justice hinted at this in his late Thursday remarks, emphasizing his desire to prioritize the best interests of Mountaineers.
“My primary focus behind this decision is ensuring the continuity of government during transitions. . . . When I assumed this role, my goal was to serve the people of West Virginia.”
Justice anticipates minimal activity between Jan. 3 – the start of the new Congress – and Jan. 20 – the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump. However, he acknowledges the potential for significant developments in Charleston during that period.
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Donald Trump shakes hands with West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice, who announced during the rally that he would switch parties from Democrat to Republican, during a Make America Great Again Rally at Big Sandy Arena in Huntington, West Virginia. (Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images)
West Virginia is one of seven states without an independently-elected lieutenant governor. The title is bestowed upon the state Senate leader in Charleston.
If Justice proceeded with his Senate entry as scheduled, current state Senate President Craig Blair would temporarily assume the gubernatorial position. However, Blair lost the GOP primary for his Martinsburg seat, leading to his departure once the new legislature convenes on Jan. 8.
On Jan. 8, Sen. Randy Smith from Tucker County, newly-appointed leader, would serve as governor until Governor-elect Patrick Morrisey assumes office on Jan. 13.
“Between January 3rd and President Trump’s inauguration, events may occur, but there won’t be significant action [in Congress] until Trump takes office,” Justice stated on Thursday.
“I’m in constant communication with President Trump regarding his appointments and our future agenda, particularly in areas like energy,” he added.
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West Virginia Governor Jim Justice poses at his desk with his pet bulldog, Babydog. (Fox News Digital/Office of Governor Jim Justice)
“I don’t expect any significant developments during this period,” Justice explained. “I believe there’s no central issue [in Congress] that requires my presence.”
Despite Justice’s absence, Republicans maintain a comfortable 53-47 margin in the Senate, allowing for a two-seat buffer.
“I don’t think West Virginia needs to experience four governors in 10 days,” he remarked.
Justice revealed that he consulted with the House Speaker and Senate Majority Leader-designate before making his decision on Thursday.
“Senator Thune is an exceptional individual. He will excel in his leadership role, and after our discussions, I am confident that everyone comprehends the intricacies and rationale behind my choice,” Justice stated.
Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.V., Justice’s upcoming colleague, expressed her support for his decision to fulfill his term as Governor of West Virginia.
“I have unwavering faith in this decision,” Justice affirmed to reporters. “The people of West Virginia entrusted me with this position, and they expect me to act in their best interests . . . Being their governor has been an unparalleled honor.”
Travelers are greeted by a West Virginia welcome sign after crossing the East River Mountain Tunnel on I-77 in Princeton. (Charles Creitz)
A billionaire coal tycoon and proprietor of The Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs, Justice was initially elected as a Democrat, later switching to the Republican Party during a rally with Trump in 2017 and winning re-election as a Republican.
Justice’s party switch and Sen. Joe Manchin’s retirement finalize West Virginia’s transformation from a historically Democratic state to a deep-red territory that has consistently favored Republican presidential candidates.
Justice believes that waiting until Jan. 13 will be worthwhile as he holds great admiration for Trump.
“I have immense respect for him and his family, and I will be a staunch supporter of his endeavors. Together, we aim to steer this nation back on the right path,” he affirmed.
“The people of West Virginia will always know my stance,” Justice concluded.
