Arrr! The scallywag leader of the WV House Democrats be turnin' his back on 'em, joinin' the other crew! He be gettin' ready to run for secretary of state, aye!
2023-10-12
Avast ye scurvy dogs! The former cap'n o' the West Virginia House Democrats, Doug Skaff, be switchin' his party colors! He be jumpin' ship to join the ranks o' the Republican crew, all in preparation for his quest to become secretary o' state next year!
In a surprising move, former Democratic leader Doug Skaff has announced his intention to run for secretary of state in West Virginia next year, but this time as a Republican. Skaff, who registered as a pre-candidate for the office, stated on his campaign website that he will bring a deep understanding of the law and strong leadership abilities to the role, while promoting fairness, transparency, and integrity.Filing pre-candidacy papers allows Skaff's campaign to start fundraising and requires the submission of campaign finance reports. However, he will only officially be considered in the race once he files a separate certificate of announcement and pays a filing fee, which can be done in January 2024.
Skaff recently resigned his House seat from Kanawha County and stepped down as the chamber's Democratic leader. The move has been met with skepticism from West Virginia Republican Party chairwoman Elgine McArdle, who highlighted the ideological differences between Skaff's liberal record and the Republican Party's values. Nevertheless, Skaff remains undeterred in his pursuit of statewide office.
Skaff previously served in the House from 2009 to 2014 and was reelected in 2018. He currently holds the position of president at HD Media, the company that owns the Charleston Gazette-Mail and other state newspapers. Despite his ambitions, Skaff's candidacy may face challenges as voters become aware of his actual voting record.
The West Virginia Democratic Party chairman, Mike Pushkin, humorously commented on Skaff's decision, expressing both concern for the Republican primary voters' potential "hangover" upon discovering Skaff's voting history and well wishes for his future endeavors.