I Am Supporting an Independent Over the Democratic Nominee in WV-01

WV-01: The Strangest Congressional Race in the Country

The race for WV-01 (the southern half of West Virginia) is one of the most unusual congressional races in the country.

The Republican Incumbent: Carol Miller

Carol Miller, the Republican incumbent, is an election-denying MAGA supporter. She doesn’t do much for her district or campaign actively. Despite this, she won 66% of the vote in 2022. This is not a swing district.

The Democratic Challenger: Chris Reed

Chris Reed, the Democratic challenger, is a Green Party supporter who criticizes Harris and Biden. He calls them warmongering fascists. More details about him are below.

The Independent Voice: Wes Holden

Wes Holden is the voice of sanity in this race. He worked for Senator Jay Rockefeller for thirty years. He has been endorsed by:

Senator Rockefeller
AFL-CIO
Steelworkers
Mineworkers
West Virginia Working Families
We Can’t Wait

These endorsements come from conservative, moderate, and progressive parts of our Democratic coalition.

WFP’s Decision

WV WFP has a rule since 2017: never endorse an alternate candidate if there is a Democrat in the race. We aim to elect the best possible candidates, not play purity games. The Green Party in WV usually gets only 5% of the vote.

Wes applied for our endorsement before the May primary, but we rejected him because there were two Democrats running. However, when the extreme candidate won the primary, we had to reassess.

A Controversial Democrat

Chris Reed is the Democratic nominee. He has never filed a campaign finance report and doesn’t have a campaign website. His Facebook page doesn’t mention being the Democratic nominee. He seems inactive in his campaign. Previously, he ran for the state house as a Green Party candidate. He also protested at the Democratic Convention in Chicago.

Here are some quotes from his recent Facebook posts:

It is shocking how many folks whom I considered to be open-minded have decided to throw in their lot with a candidate like Harris. By ignoring the ongoing genocide in Gaza they are exhibiting an extreme form of First World privilege.

Harris is turning flip-flopping into an Olympic sport…

The Democrats are the number one war party in Washington. Bush era Republicans swoon over Harris’ militaristic speech.

He supports Cornel West, Muammar Gaddafi, Venezuelan dictator Nicholas Maduro, Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, and the Cuban government. These issues are not major concerns for voters in southern WV.

How did he beat a sane Democrat in the primary? One possibility is that Republicans registered as independents voted for him (WV has a semi-open primary). Don Blankenship, a convicted coal baron, ran for the Democratic nomination for US Senate and did well in some southern coal counties. Reed’s vote totals were highly correlated with Blankenship’s.

Holden’s Positions

Wes could have easily won the Democratic nomination. He is well-known and respected from his position with Rockefeller. His positions on issues align with mainstream Democrats:

Pro-choice
Pro-union
Acknowledges the coal industry is dying and that WV needs to diversify its economy out of fossil fuels

Why Run as an Independent?

Here is what Wes posted on his website:

I believe that the people of West Virginia are more concerned with a candidate’s character and ability than with the party he or she belongs to.

As an independent candidate, my allegiance is to ordinary citizens; not PACs, special interests, or political machines. I believe that our politicians have failed in their most fundamental duties. My purpose in running for Congress is to improve our quality of life and ensure a better future for West Virginia.

In recent years, the Republican Party has had a stranglehold on this state, occupying all the major offices, except one Senate seat (Manchin’s). Meanwhile, the Democratic Party has become quite weak and has few resources. Registered Democratic voters have declined 38% in the last eight years. Independents, on the other hand, have increased 15% and currently constitute more than 25% of the electorate in the state.

In the course of campaigning around the first congressional district, from MacDowell to Pendleton to Mason Counties, I have had a very positive response to my candidacy as an independent. Voters who are registered independent are quite enthusiastic, and I am also getting a lot of support from Democrats and even many Republicans who are unhappy with the incumbent, who has been in office for going on 6 years.

Currently, there are two independents in the U. S. Senate, Bernie Sanders and Angus King. Just because West Virginia has never had an independent serve in Congress before this, doesn’t mean it can’t happen.

I am putting my shoulder against the wheel of history and pushing the skeptics out of the way, because I am the best candidate for the job. This election, I’m asking you to join me, and let’s make history together!

Wes says he has been invited to Democratic Executive Committee meetings in several counties in his district and that they are supporting him. I don’t live in his district, but if I did, I would support him. I have asked my representatives on the state DEC to move that the state Democratic Party denounce Reed as a fake Democrat (as they did with Blankenship before the primary).

I agree with Wes that his approach is worth trying. I have knocked on thousands of doors over the last twenty years, mostly for our WFP-endorsed candidates (who are almost all Democrats). I can easily convince independents to vote for WFP’s choices. Trying to convince the same people to vote for the same candidates because the Democrats are great doesn’t work (“both parties are crooked”). It is unfortunate, but the Democratic Party brand in WV is unpopular.

I don’t expect Wes to win. However, it will be an interesting experiment to see if the solution to the Republican deadlock on state government is to run independents. There are many similarities among WV, Vermont, and Maine. All three are rural and predominantly white. Bernie is incredibly popular in a purple state; I doubt he would have been nearly as successful as a Democrat.

Since Wes is not a Democrat, he can’t use ActBlue. Here is a donation link.

FAQ Section

What Are the Key Issues in WV-01?

Several key issues in West Virginia’s 1st Congressional District that are influencing voter decisions. Here are some of the main issues:

Economic Development:** The district faces economic challenges, including high unemployment rates and a need for job creation and infrastructure development.
Healthcare Access:** Access to quality healthcare is a significant concern, particularly in rural areas where medical facilities are limited.
Environmental Issues:** Environmental concerns such as coal mining impacts, water quality, and conservation efforts are also prominent.
Education:** Improving education standards and access to educational resources is another critical issue in the district.

How Do Independent Candidates Differ from Democrats?

Independent candidates often have distinct approaches and policies compared to those of the Democratic Party. Here are some key differences:

Policy Stances:** Independent candidates may take more moderate or centrist stances on issues, potentially appealing to voters who feel that both major parties are too extreme.
Transparency and Accountability:** Some voters prefer independent candidates because they are not beholden to party donors or special interest groups, potentially leading to more transparent decision-making.
Fresh Perspectives:** Independents often bring new ideas and approaches to governance, which can be attractive to voters seeking innovation and change.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Voting for an Independent Candidate?

Voting for an independent candidate comes with both advantages and disadvantages. Here are some points to consider:

Pros:
- Unconventional Solutions:** Independents may offer unique solutions to complex problems that traditional party candidates overlook.
- Less Partisanship:** By supporting an independent, voters may feel they are reducing partisanship and promoting more bipartisan cooperation in Congress.
- Local Focus:** Independents often focus more on local issues and community needs rather than national party agendas.
Cons:
- Lack of Party Resources:** Independent candidates typically lack the financial and organizational resources available to major party candidates.
- Lower Visibility:** Independents often receive less media attention and public recognition compared to well-known party nominees.
- Difficulty in Passing Legislation:** As a single member of Congress, an independent may face significant challenges in passing legislation without party support.

How Can Voters Support an Independent Candidate Effectively?

Supporting an independent candidate requires strategic efforts to ensure their voice is heard. Here are some ways voters can make a difference:

Volunteer Work:** Helping with campaign activities such as canvassing, phone banking, or event organization can significantly boost an independent candidate’s visibility and outreach.
Financial Contributions:** Donating money directly to the campaign helps cover essential costs like advertising, staffing, and voter outreach programs.
Social Media Engagement:** Utilizing social media platforms to share information about the candidate and engage in online discussions can help build a grassroots movement.
Voter Registration Drives:** Encouraging others to register to vote and participate in local elections is crucial for increasing voter turnout and supporting independent candidates.

What Role Does Personal Experience Play in Supporting an Independent Candidate?

Personal experiences often play a significant role in deciding whether to support an independent candidate. Here are some ways personal experiences influence this decision:

Local Impact:** Voters who have seen firsthand how local issues affect their communities may be more inclined to support an independent who focuses on these issues.
Community Involvement:** Individuals deeply involved in community activities may find that an independent candidate better aligns with their values and efforts.
Historical Context:** Past experiences with political parties or previous representatives can shape opinions about whether an independent is a viable alternative.

How Do Polls Reflect Support for Independent Candidates?

Polls provide insights into public opinion regarding support for independent candidates. Here are key points from recent polls:

Margin of Error:** Polls often have a margin of error that can affect the accuracy of results, especially when dealing with smaller sample sizes.
Trend Analysis:** Analyzing trends over time helps understand whether support for an independent candidate is increasing or decreasing.
Demographic Breakdowns:** Breaking down poll results by demographics such as age, gender, and geographic location can reveal who is most likely supporting an independent candidate.

What Are the Legal Requirements for Running as an Independent Candidate?

Running as an independent candidate involves meeting specific legal requirements. Here are some key points:

Filing Deadlines:** Candidates must meet filing deadlines set by state election authorities to appear on the ballot.
Signature Requirements:** Many states require independent candidates to gather a certain number of signatures from registered voters to qualify for the ballot.
Financial Disclosure:** Candidates may need to disclose their financial information and campaign contributions as part of the election process.

How Do Independent Candidates Address Campaign Finance Issues?

Independent candidates face unique challenges related to campaign finance. Here are some strategies they use:

Small Donations:** Relying on small donations from many individuals rather than large contributions from special interest groups helps maintain independence.
Grassroots Fundraising:** Organizing grassroots fundraising events and campaigns helps build a strong network of supporters who contribute financially.
Public Financing Options:** Some states offer public financing options for candidates who agree not to accept private donations, which can help level the playing field.

What Are the Potential Consequences of Voting for an Independent Candidate?

Voting for an independent candidate comes with potential consequences both at the local and national levels. Here are some considerations:

Split Vote:** In some cases, an independent candidate might split the vote between themselves and the major party candidate, potentially benefiting the opposing party.
Impact on Party Balance:** If an independent wins, it could shift the balance of power in Congress or state legislatures, potentially leading to more moderate or bipartisan policies.
Long-term Effects:** The long-term effects of voting for an independent candidate depend on their ability to build a sustainable political movement or influence future elections.

How Can Voters Evaluate the Credibility of an Independent Candidate?

Evaluating the credibility of an independent candidate involves several steps. Here are some key factors to consider:

Policy Positions:** Carefully review the candidate’s policy positions and compare them with your own values and priorities.
Experience:** Assess whether the candidate has relevant experience in governance, business, or community leadership that could benefit their role as a representative.
Transparency:** Look for candidates who are transparent about their finances, donors, and decision-making processes.

What Role Does Social Media Play in Supporting an Independent Candidate?

Social media plays a crucial role in supporting an independent candidate by amplifying their message and engaging with potential voters. Here are some ways social media can be leveraged:

Content Creation:** Share informative content such as videos, blog posts, and infographics that highlight the candidate’s platform and achievements.
Engagement:** Engage with followers by responding to comments and messages promptly while fostering a sense of community around the campaign.
Hashtag Campaigns:** Utilize relevant hashtags to increase visibility on platforms like Twitter or Instagram.

How Can Voters Ensure Their Vote Counts in Supporting an Independent Candidate?

To ensure that your vote counts when supporting an independent candidate, follow these steps:

Verify Information:** Double-check all information about voting requirements such as deadlines, locations, and necessary documentation.
Get Involved:** Participate actively by volunteering for campaign activities or spreading awareness about the candidate through word-of-mouth or online platforms.
Stay Informed:** Stay updated with local news and announcements regarding elections to avoid any last-minute surprises or changes in voting procedures.

What Are Some Successful Examples of Independent Candidates in U.S. Politics?

There have been several successful examples of independent candidates in U.S. politics who have made significant impacts despite not being affiliated with major parties. Here are some notable cases:

Bernie Sanders (Vermont):** Although he later became a Democrat, Bernie Sanders initially ran as an independent senator from Vermont before joining the Democratic Party.
Joe Lieberman (Connecticut):** Joe Lieberman ran as an independent after losing the Democratic primary but managed to win re-election as an independent senator from Connecticut.

How Can Voters Address Concerns About Voting for an Independent Candidate?

Voters may have various concerns when considering voting for an independent candidate. Here are some common concerns and how they can be addressed:

Lack of Party Support:** Address this concern by understanding that independent candidates often rely on grassroots support rather than party machinery.
Uncertainty About Policies:** Research thoroughly into the candidate’s policy positions and engage directly with them through town halls or Q&A sessions.

Conclusion

Supporting an independent candidate involves careful consideration of various factors including policy alignment, personal experience, and potential consequences. By understanding these aspects and engaging actively in the process, voters can make informed decisions that reflect their values and priorities.