Richard and John Doyle discuss the West Virginia budget, taxation, including property taxes, public education and the breakdown of the family.
Tag: wv elections 2024
| Summary | |
| Secretary of State Candidate Doug Skaff Addresses Voting Issues and Solutions | |
| Doug, a lifelong West Virginian and candidate for Secretary of State, discussed the recent issues with mail-in voting in some states and the potential for fraud. He shared his experience as a legislator and small business owner, and his enthusiasm for the role of Secretary of State. Richard raised concerns about the use of electronic voting machines and tabulators, including a question about whether ballots in West Virginia are ever adjudicated. Doug confirmed that he is running for the position to strengthen the office’s role as the chief elections officer and to prevent any potential issues. | |
| Improving Election Security and Transparency | |
| Doug and Richard discussed the challenges and potential improvements for election security, with Doug emphasizing the importance of partnership and surrounding oneself with experts in cyber security. They discussed issues with the current electronic voting system in West Virginia, including concerns about the security of the machines and the need for transparency in their operation. Doug proposed partnering with Marshall University’s Cyber Security School to stay up-to-date with the latest technology and best practices. Richard agreed on the need for more education about the voting process and how it’s tabulated. | |
| Improving Business Verification and Voter Registration | |
| Doug voiced his concerns about the need for a more up to date and fast business verification system as well as a similar system for voters to use to check their registration. The proposed system would ensure the legitimacy of registered businesses, as well as provide confidence in up to date voter registration information. He advocated for a more user-friendly system, including apps for mobile devices. Richard and Doug also discussed the need to improve West Virginia’s voter registration process, with Doug emphasizing the importance of making it more user-friendly and accessible, and Richard highlighting the need for cross-referencing with property records to ensure the integrity of the voter database. Doug indicated that voter rolls should be cleaned up every two years. | |
| Voter Database Management and Integrity | |
| Richard and Doug discussed the shortcomings of the current voter database management system, with Doug emphasizing the need for regular review and cleanup to ensure accuracy and prevent manipulation. They also expressed concerns about the increasing demand for absentee ballots during the Covid-19 pandemic and the importance of verifying their use to maintain the integrity of the election process. Lastly, they discussed the need for greater transparency and simplicity in business registration and the potential use of measures such as signature tracking and photo ID match to prevent fraudulent voting. Richard mentioned that some jurisdictions use thumbprints to verify voter identity and prevent fraud. | |
| Improving West Virginia’s Economy and Workforce | |
| Doug and Richard discussed ways to improve West Virginia’s economy and workforce. Doug proposed creating a fund for people who lose their jobs or get displaced, to help them acquire the tools and training they need to stay employed in the state. He suggested that the state’s surplus money, not previously given back to taxpayers, should instead be used to help small businesses, which are seen as the backbone of the state. Doug’s emphasized the need to focus on West Virginia’s citizens, particularly its small business owners. They agreed on the importance of being proactive in securing the state’s voting process and preventing fraud. | |
| Jefferson County Public Schools Levy Allocation Concerns | |
| Richard and Donna discussed the excess levy in Jefferson County public schools, with concerns raised about the transparency of its allocation, specifically whether it was being used for teacher salaries as advertised. Donna confirmed that the levy did go towards teacher salaries but Richard interjected that only about two percent goes for teacher salaries. Donna also highlighted critical challenges facing the school system, such as a shortage of teachers and service personnel, a lack of emphasis on student achievement and marketable skills, and issues with discipline policy. | |
| State Education Policy and Concerns | |
| Donna and Richard discussed a perceived shift in the county’s discipline policy, which they believed negatively impacted teachers and students. Donna mentioned that there may be a request for a new excess levy for schools before the voters this November, which she will verify. Richard noted a disconnect between spending and performance, with schools spending more but not necessarily seeing improved results. They discussed the issue of students being disciplined and returned to class by administrators without consequences. Donna shared her personal experiences and concerns about the current education policies and practices. | |
| Addressing Education System Issues and Solutions | |
| Donna and Richard discussed the current educational system’s shortcomings, particularly concerning resource allocation and school performance. Donna mentioned that schools are evaluated on a point system, which could affect the reporting of discipline problems. She also advocated for increased accountability among students and a renewed focus on academics. | |
| Addressing Jefferson County’s Educational Challenges | |
| Donna and Richard discussed the educational challenges in Jefferson County, with Donna expressing concerns about inconsistent standards and the need for consistency across schools. Donna, as a board member, reiterated her commitment to accountability and transparency, and her belief in promoting high standards for all students. She also noted the classroom experience of the current superintendent. Richard appreciated | |
| Poverty’s Impact on Virtual Education | |
| Donna discussed online Jefferson Virtual Academy. They expressed concern about the high student-to-teacher ratio, with three teachers assigned to 26 kids, while in-person classes might have 30 students and one teacher. Donna advocated for higher standards and better measures of student achievement. | |
| Election Anticipation and Budget Discussion | |
| Donna indicated that the Superintendent prepares the budget, and it is approved by the Board of Education almost as a formality. | |
| Declining Enrollment and School Choice Impact | |
| Richard and Donna discussed the declining enrollment in local schools. Donna expressed that it is good for parents to have the choices in education, including public schools, the Hope Scholarship and the new charter school, especially since public schools have declined in performance in recent years. | |
| Concerns Over Covid-19 Relief Funds | |
| Donna expressed concerns about the use of funds, particularly regarding the creation of new positions and the payment of additional stipends in the School Board office, making it top-heavy. Richard agreed and noted that the Kanawha County school district has about twice as many students but a smaller amount of central office staff per student. This prompted discussions on potential policy adjustments for the next year. Donna had contacted the superintendent to seek clarity on the intricacies of the stipend system, acknowledging that the lack of transparency could lead to confusion among the public. | |
| School Choice and Improving Public Education | |
| Donna expressed regret over the deterioration of the public school system, which has led to people seeking alternatives. She emphasized that options are necessary to create healthy competition and motivate improvements within the public school system. | |
| Evaluating System Integrity and Culture | |
| Richard asked about yet another teacher at Jefferson high school arrested for criminal sexual behavior. Donna responded by stating that she had requested an independent evaluation of Jefferson High School from both the former and current Superintendent. The purpose of the evaluation is to examine the culture that seemed to allow such incidents to occur annually since 2016. d | |
| Summary | |
| Tricia Jackson’s Candidacy for West Virginia State Auditor | |
| Richard introduced Tricia Jackson, a Republican primary candidate for West Virginia State Auditor. Tricia explained her decision to run for the position, citing her current role as a county commissioner in Jefferson County and her previous experience with the auditor’s office. She highlighted her background in budgeting, tracking taxpayer dollars, and her comprehensive understanding of the state’s bookkeeping, agencies, counties, and municipalities. She also emphasized her experience in executive-level operations, project management, and human resources. | |
| West Virginia Checkbook and Project Mountaineer | |
| Richard and Tricia discussed the West Virginia Checkbook and Project Mountaineer. Tricia clarified that Project Mountaineer is the operational name for the West Virginia Checkbook at the county and municipal level, used to track revenues and expenses. She noted that the system is currently voluntary and only 55 out of 75 counties are integrated. Tricia also suggested that legislative encouragement might be needed for boards of education to join the system. Richard expressed concerns about the lack of detailed financial information available to the public, to which Tricia confirmed that while payroll expenses are included, specific line items and salaries are not currently disclosed. Tricia explained her use of a ‘catch-all bucket’ term to describe services that are outsourced to the county, including professional services like public relations, attorney’s fees, and human resources. The discussion left an open question about the exact annual cost for specialty practices. | |
| Improving School Fund Allocation Transparency | |
| Tricia and Richard criticized the lack of clarity and specificity in the allocation of funds in their school system. They noted that this led to confusion among taxpayers and teachers, with excessive funds seemingly supporting bloated administrative staff rather than benefiting teachers. They called for improved reporting and transparency, particularly regarding the allocation of funds for teacher salaries and school improvements. Tricia suggested standardizing reporting processes, providing tools to make reporting easier, and mandatory inclusion of school systems in the transparency portal. The issue of staff salaries was also raised, with Tricia indicating a need to investigate any legal restrictions on including this information. | |
| Improving Accessibility, Availability, and Budget Prioritization | |
| Tricia and Richard discussed ways to improve accessibility and availability of information from a portal, with Tricia emphasizing the need for an inclusive approach that caters to all users, including those with limited internet access. They also addressed issues related to budget management, specifically the problem of unused budgets at the end of the fiscal year. Tricia expressed her concern about the prioritization of spending, suggesting that essential services and small businesses should be given greater priority over multimillion-dollar corporations. The conversation indicated that the state legislature sets the budget, and the auditor tracks expenses. | |
| Property Taxation and Assessment Issues | |
| Tricia and Richard discussed the high taxation issues they face, particularly regarding property taxes. Richard expressed concern about the substantial amount he pays in property taxes, even as a senior, and suggested a potential solution to reduce rates. Tricia confirmed that the homestead credit is available to him but noted that it has not changed despite rising assessed values in their area. They also discussed the levy rate, which has remained the same for three years, and how it is adjusted to meet increased assessed values, resulting in no reduction in their tax bill. Richard brought up potential issues with property tax assessment, indicating significant variations in property values. | |
| Assessor’s Office Oversight and Auditor’s Role | |
| Richard and Tricia discussed the oversight of the Assessor’s office and the role of the auditor in addressing corruption and improving transparency. Tricia clarified that the auditor’s office has no direct oversight over the Assessor’s office but can review issues related to revenue impact. Tricia also emphasized her commitment to improving transparency and reducing fraud through better access to information. She pointed out three opponents in the upcoming election and explained why she believed her background and experience qualified her best to tackle the challenges facing the auditor’s office. Richard thanked Tricia for her insights and promised to share the conversation with a wider audience. | |
Summary
Introducing Bryan McKinney as Senate Candidate
Richard introduced Bryan Mckinney as a primary candidate for the United States Senate. Mckinney, who works a regular job and has no prior political experience, expressed his excitement at the prospect of running. He discussed his views on politics, including his discontent with the establishment and his belief that the government should not have excessive control over people’s lives. He also shared his criticisms of the current Senator, Justice, and also Congressman Mooney, highlighting their support for unnecessary government spending and their lack of commitment to individual freedoms.
Opposing Congressman Mooney’s Bill and FISA Extension
Bryan and Richard discussed their opposition to the $60 billion bill voted for by Congressman Mooney to support Ukraine. Bryan argued that the conflict in Ukraine should be resolved through a better solution rather than escalating it with more funds, and that the U.S. Government’s role should be to protect its own citizens and not provide aid to countries that do not share American values. He also expressed concerns about the U.S.-Mexico border, suggesting that military control might be a permanent solution to keep the country safe. Furthermore, Bryan criticized the recent FISA extension bill and the government’s approach of preventing crimes before they occur, comparing it to the tactics depicted in the movie Minority Report. Richard agreed with Bryan’s views on these issues.
Reducing Government Spending and Reform
Bryan and Richard discussed the issue of government spending, with Bryan expressing frustration about the large, unreadable spending bills passed by Congress. Bryan proposed that all spending bills should be one page (could refer to a more detailed explanation) and focused on the purpose of the government, with a focus on reducing unnecessary spending. He also suggested implementing term limits for government officials to prevent them from becoming entrenched in their positions and losing touch with the people they represent. Bryan further argued that many functions currently performed by the government, such as funding specific research projects, would be better handled by private organizations or state governments.
Addressing Poverty and Societal Issues in WV
Bryan and Richard discussed the issues of poverty and societal problems in West Virginia. Bryan criticized the government’s policies for driving businesses away and causing poverty, emphasizing the need to address the root causes rather than offering temporary solutions. Both agreed that family instability was a core cause of many societal problems and recognized the need for stronger families. Bryan highlighted the importance of providing good job opportunities to incentivize people to stay together and build a future. He expressed concerns about the economic impact of bringing in companies like Form Energy, suggesting they should collaborate with domestic manufacturers, and criticized the transfer of funds to companies connected to China and Bill Gates, who he believes have contempt for the coal and oil industries.
Job Market Challenges and Employment Barriers
Richard and Bryan discussed the current state of the job market. Richard expressed concern about the availability of jobs and noted that many people are out of the job market due to various reasons, including drug addiction and government assistance. Bryan agreed and highlighted the difficulties people with criminal records face in securing employment.
Family Structure, Work, and Government Involvement
Richard and Bryan had a discussion about the importance of family structure and the role of work in one’s success. Bryan agreed but highlighted the challenges of finding employment and questioned the government’s role in enforcing work requirements. Instead, Bryan suggested that such measures should be implemented at the state level, as they are easier to manage and more connected to the people. Bryan also shared their personal circumstances, working hard to support his family and being without pay for six months during the COVID crisis.
Education System and Vaccination Discussion
Bryan and Richard discussed the education system, with Bryan advocating for a more practical and competitive education for children, inspired by the education system in Japan. Bryan suggested that half of the school day should be dedicated to practical learning, including physical education, and that homework should focus on interesting and applicable topics. They also touched upon the topic of vaccination, with Bryan sharing his distrust of pharmaceutical companies due to the number of drugs withdrawn from the market due to side effects. He shared his decision to not vaccinate five of her six children, citing potential risks and the lack of liability for injuries. Richard acknowledged the difficulty in obtaining compensation through the Congressional fund for vaccine-related injuries.
Individual Rights and Government Overreach
Bryan and Richard discussed various issues related to individual rights and freedoms. They strongly supported the parent’s right to choose their children’s education, opposed mandatory vaccinations, and criticized the government’s overreach in healthcare. They also discussed the right to bear arms and supported the concept of national concealed carry. Bryan emphasized the importance of minimizing the government’s power and reducing its control over citizens’ lives.
Bryan’s Political Disillusionment and Campaign
Bryan expressed his disillusionment with the current political climate and his decision to run for office to provide an alternative choice for voters. He criticized his opponent, Alex Mooney, for his lack of private sector experience and his recent legal troubles. Bryan st wants his children to see him as a role model. Bryan shared that his campaign has been well received, with many people appreciating the chance to vote for someone other than the incumbent.
| Summary | |
| Richie Robb’s Campaign and COVID-19 Concerns | |
| Richie and Richard discussed Richie’s campaign for Attorney General in West Virginia. Richie emphasized his commitment to reviewing federal regulations affecting the state, particularly in regards to utility rates, environmental issues, and the opioid crisis. They also discussed concerns about utility rate increases in West Virginia and potential liability for damages from COVID-19 shots. Richie shared his personal experience with developing blood clots after receiving his second COVID-19 shot and expressed concerns about the potential side effects of the vaccines. None the less, Ritchie gives a certain deference to government authorities to take actions such as recommending COVID jabs, although he would look into the issue. | |
| Utility Companies, Regulatory Agencies, and Balance | |
| Richard and Richie discussed the perceived cozy relationship between utility companies and regulatory agencies, specifically the Public Service Commission. Richard shared his experience of being charged for a minor complaint related to water usage during the winter, implying that the system favors the utilities. Richie agreed, stating that there are constant allegations and suspicions that the Public Service Commission is in the pocket of the utilities. Both acknowledged the need for a more balanced approach to protect taxpayers and users. Richie mentioned a retired consumer advocate, Walter Washington, whom he plans to consult for his expertise if he were in office. | |
| Combating Opioid Epidemic in WV | |
| Richard and Richie discussed the opioid epidemic and its impact on West Virginia. Richie suggested a proactive approach to combat the issue, proposing to take the fight to the source by involving the Attorney General’s office, the military, and intelligence sources, similar to the successful strategy against terrorism. They also recognized the importance of strengthening families and addressing the root causes of drug demand and societal breakdown. Ritchie indicated that he does not think there was systemic fraud during the 2020 elections.. Richie was the only candidate, according to him, providing a concrete platform to tackle issues, versus just repeating platitudes. | |
| Attorney General Role and Qualifications | |
| Richie and Richard discussed the role of the Attorney General in West Virginia, with Richie emphasizing the need for concrete action plans and qualifications from candidates. They also discussed a controversy in Jefferson County concerning the removal of two county commissioners. Richie explained that in West Virginia, local prosecuting attorneys have jurisdiction, not the Attorney General. Richie suggested that the Attorney General should only intervene if requested by the prosecutor. | |
Candidate website: mcnultywv.com
| Summary | |
| Janet McNulty Addresses Election Fraud and Jailings | |
| Janet Mcnulty, a candidate for the United States Senate in West Virginia, discussed the issue of election fraud and the ongoing imprisonment of individuals accused of participating in the January 6 insurrection. She argued that the alleged election fraud should be investigated and that the individuals currently in jail, some of whom have not even been charged, are being unjustly held and deny their constitutional right to a trial by a jury of their peers. Janet also shared that she is a writer, publishing a variety of genres including paranormal, humorous mysteries, and dystopian series. | |
| Addressing Vaccine Mandates and Civic Engagement | |
| Richard and Janet discussed various issues facing the United States, focusing on vaccine mandates and the need for greater civic engagement. Janet emphasized the importance of individual choice in vaccination and criticized the 1986 legislation that exempted pharmaceutical companies from liability for faulty vaccines. She also highlighted the growing problem of tribalism and echo chambers in American society, leading to a lack of attention to current events and political issues. Richard agreed on the need for greater civic engagement and highlighted recent cases of weaponization within the Department of Justice. | |
| Discussing Government Agencies, Funding, and Immigration | |
| Richard and Janet discussed concerns about the growing power of government agencies, specifically the FBI, and their impact on individual rights. Janet opposed recent legislation providing substantial funds for Ukraine, Taiwan, and Israel, citing increasing national debt as a reason for concern. She also criticized the FBI’s actions, including warrantless searches, as violations of the 4th Amendment. They also discussed issues related to funding, border security, and immigration, with Janet proposing an itemized list of government expenditures to identify potential cuts, a temporary halt to all visa issuance and entry to assess legal status, and a focus on legal immigration. Janet believers the policy of earmarks, where politicians’ pet projects are funded, should be eliminated. | |
| Social Security System and Future Plans | |
| Richard and Janet discussed the future of the Social Security system. Janet advocated for returning the system to its original founding purpose of providing retirement for senior citizens.and emphasized the need to make Social Security a true trust fund, where funds deposited are actually held in trust. She also expressed concern about the increasing divide in society and pledged to fight for term limits and the preservation of the Constitution if elected.. | |
| Strengthening Families and Reducing Societal Problems | |
| Richard and Janet discussed the decline of two-parent families and its impact on society. They agreed that strengthening families, particularly through education and encouraging abstinence until marriage, could significantly reduce societal problems. They also discussed the issue of teenage pregnancies and abortions, suggesting that local communities should take a proactive approach to help youth make wise decisions. Janet indicated that she would have voted to investigate election fraud if she were in office on January 6th, 2021. | |
Candidate website: mcnultywv.com
| Summary | |
| Janet McNulty Addresses Election Fraud and Jailings | |
| Janet Mcnulty, a candidate for the United States Senate in West Virginia, discussed the issue of election fraud and the ongoing imprisonment of individuals accused of participating in the January 6 insurrection. She argued that the alleged election fraud should be investigated and that the individuals currently in jail, some of whom have not even been charged, are being unjustly held and deny their constitutional right to a trial by a jury of their peers. Janet also shared that she is a writer, publishing a variety of genres including paranormal, humorous mysteries, and dystopian series. | |
| Addressing Vaccine Mandates and Civic Engagement | |
| Richard and Janet discussed various issues facing the United States, focusing on vaccine mandates and the need for greater civic engagement. Janet emphasized the importance of individual choice in vaccination and criticized the 1986 legislation that exempted pharmaceutical companies from liability for faulty vaccines. She also highlighted the growing problem of tribalism and echo chambers in American society, leading to a lack of attention to current events and political issues. Richard agreed on the need for greater civic engagement and highlighted recent cases of weaponization within the Department of Justice. | |
| Discussing Government Agencies, Funding, and Immigration | |
| Richard and Janet discussed concerns about the growing power of government agencies, specifically the FBI, and their impact on individual rights. Janet opposed recent legislation providing substantial funds for Ukraine, Taiwan, and Israel, citing increasing national debt as a reason for concern. She also criticized the FBI’s actions, including warrantless searches, as violations of the 4th Amendment. They also discussed issues related to funding, border security, and immigration, with Janet proposing an itemized list of government expenditures to identify potential cuts, a temporary halt to all visa issuance and entry to assess legal status, and a focus on legal immigration. Janet believers the policy of earmarks, where politicians’ pet projects are funded, should be eliminated. | |
| Social Security System and Future Plans | |
| Richard and Janet discussed the future of the Social Security system. Janet advocated for returning the system to its original founding purpose of providing retirement for senior citizens.and emphasized the need to make Social Secirity a true trust fund, where funds deposited are actually held in trust. She also expressed concern about the increasing divide in society and pledged to fight for term limits and the preservation of the Constitution if elected.. | |
| Strengthening Families and Reducing Societal Problems | |
| Richard and Janet discussed the decline of two-parent families and its impact on society. They agreed that strengthening families, particularly through education and encouraging abstinence until marriage, could significantly reduce societal problems. They also discussed the issue of teenage pregnancies and abortions, suggesting that local communities should take a proactive approach to help youth make wise decisions. Janet indicated that she would have voted to investigate election fraud if she were in office on January 6th, 2021. | |
Candidate website: kc4wv.org
Summary
West Virginia’s Economic Struggles and Leadership
Richard and Kevin, a candidate for Governor of West Virginia, discussed the state’s economic troubles. Kevin highlighted that West Virginia has been 70 years behind in transitioning its economy, citing the decline since the automation of its coal fields in the 1950s as a significant factor. He pointed out the failure of leadership in the state as a major contributing factor to the current economic situation.
Conservatism, Government, and COVID-19 Pandemic
Richard and Kevin had a discussion about the definition and application of the term “conservative”. Kevin explained his view that conservatism, in the context of government, should mean being economically responsible with shared resources for future generations. They also discussed the government’s role in managing the COVID-19 pandemic, with Kevin stating he did not support the excessive use of emergency powers by the executive branch. Richard raised a concern about government mandates, and Kevin responded that he does not support such mandates on private entities.
Discussing West Virginia Vaccine Mandates
Richard and Kevin discussed the vaccine mandates in West Virginia, particularly the requirement for children to receive 11 vaccinations to attend school. Kevin, a parent, believed that parents should have the final say on what happens to their children, and the decision to vaccinate should be based on the science and reason behind each vaccine. He also expressed skepticism about the efficacy and safety of some vaccines and mentioned that the science community lost credibility by overstating the risks of diseases like measles
Leadership, Communication, and Vaccine Mandates
Kevin and Richard discussed concerns regarding leadership and communication in handling the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in relation to vaccination mandates in various sectors. Kevin argued that private entities should have the freedom to decide their own rules, while also acknowledging that the government’s involvement was necessary, especially in the military. A point of contention arose around the dismissal of soldiers who refused the vaccine, with both expressing doubts about the necessity of dismissing soldiers who refused the COVID jabs.
Resource Ownership and West Virginia’s Revitalization
Kevin and Richard discussed the concept of resource ownership and distribution, with Kevin emphasizing the equal ownership of resources by all individuals. Kevin criticized the current system that allows a small percentage of the population to control a large amount of resources, exacerbating inequalities and poverty. He proposed a plan to address West Virginia’s economic issues by creating a state bank, with all citizens made shareholders, and funding it with the Federal Reserve’s quantitative easing policy. The capital generated would be used to restart the state’s extraction industry, with the revenues invested in future West Virginia. Richard raised concerns about the impact of federal regulations on coal extraction, to which Kevin clarified that the EPA’s power is constitutionally limited.
Addressing Societal Issues and Empowering Families
Richard and Kevin discussed the underlying causes of societal issues such as drug use, teenage pregnancy, and suicide Richard proposed that societal breakdown is primarily caused by the breakdown of two-parent, husband and wife families, with 47 percent of all births in West Virginia being outside of marriage. Kevin agreed that this is a core issue that is related to the economic concerns that he is focusing on. Both agreed on the necessity of community involvement, promoting local solutions, and enabling people to pursue their dreams.
Improving Election Integrity and Transparency
Richard and Kevin discussed the issue of election integrity, focusing on concerns about voting machines and the role of corporate money in elections. Richard highlighted problems with machines in Arizona and Michigan, while Kevin stressed the need to address the deeper issue of corporate influence in the election process. Kevin emphasized the need for fully open primaries.
Addressing Fraud and Improving Education
Kevin said that he supports the Hope Scholarship Program and more choices in education. Kevin emphasized the importance of addressing the root cause of the problem, which is the poor performance of public schools, and suggested that the solution lies in making public schools more successful to reduce the demand for alternative education options. Richard agreed with Kevin’s support for the scholarship program as a choice for education.
West Virginia Election and Candidate Focus
Richard and Kevin discussed the upcoming election in West Virginia. Kevin emphasized his focus on improving the lives of West Virginians and differentiated himself from his opponents by stating his sole allegiance is to the people of West Virginia, not corporate interests. He also invited voters to learn more about him through his website.