Inside West Virginia Politics

On this week's episode of Inside West Virginia Politics, we share highlights from WOWK-TV's latest coronavirus special, "Opening West Virginia," with guests including Governor Jim Justice, Senator Joe Manchin, COVID-19 Czar Dr. Clay Marsh, and WVU President Dr. E. Gordon Gee. Then, we switch gears to focus in on two democratic candidates for the United States Senate, Paula Jean Swearengin and Richard Ojeda.In segment 1, we share a portion of our latest COVID-19 special, "Opening West Virginia." U.S. Senator Joe Manchin lists what he thinks needs to be done in order to fully re-open West Virginia, Ohio County Delegate and President of the Wheeling Chamber of Commerce Erikka Storch talks about what we can do to support our local businesses, and Governor Jim Justice addresses COVID testing concerns and reflects on how West Virginia residents have come together to combat the virus.In segment 2, you'll hear more highlights from "Opening West Virginia," including Wally Thornhill on the automobile supply chain and w

On this week's episode, our guests continue the discussion on COVID-19, this time focusing on West Virginia's financial status, including the state's projected budget deficit, reopening local economy, and how you can help those struggling amid the pandemic.In segment 1, Republican House Speaker Roger Hanshaw tells us about West Virginia's projected budget deficits -- with the local economy just starting to reopen, he details what the state will be able to do about revenue shortfalls, including budget cuts, federal money in the state, and who can act on any decisions made. He also shares his opinion on the move to transfer federal prisoners into West Virginia facilities, telling us why he doesn't think it's a good idea. In segment 2, Kent Carper, president of the Kanawha County Commission, tells us how Kanawha County is doing under the shadow of the projected state budget deficit, as well as how they've combated financial troubles. He also talks about the gradual reopening of county parks, including guidelines

On this weeks episode, we focus on "West Virginia Strong - The Comeback," Governor Jim Justice's plan to gradually reopen the economy. Guests discuss a variety of topics, including the "safer at home" order, elective procedures, drive-thru testing, broadband expansion, and outdoor dining at restaurants.In segment 1, West Virginia Governor Jim Justice joins us via Skype to discuss elective surgeries, restaurants, and small businesses reopening, saying we have to take baby steps to ensure everyone's safety. He also details the differences between stay-at-home orders and the "safer at home" order he just enacted, and says, above all else, that we can't forget that COVID-19 is still here.In segment 2, Dr. Sherri Young, Executive Director & Health Officer at the Kanawha-Charleston Health Department and President of the West Virginia Medical Association talks about the impact of elective procedures on both the economy and hospital revenue, restaurants reopening, and the number you can call to schedule an appoin

On this week's episode, guests discuss how West Virginia is faring amid COVID-19, including education being transitioned to online after the announcement that school buildings will remain closed, as well as the impact of the pandemic on minorities, nursing homes, and people in recovery.In segment 1, Dale Lee, President of the West Virginia Education Association, talks with us about the latest education news. He shares his opinion on the move to online learning, tells us about how teachers and other school service personnel are becoming more creative every day to meet the needs of students, and talks about the challenges educators are facing that will need to be resolved in the coming weeks.In segment 2, Reverend Matthew Watts of Grace Bible Church discusses with us why minorities are getting hit harder during the pandemic than the general population and shares the details of his personal project to get testing access to the community, including what you need to do to sign up for the next round.In segment 3, A

On this week's episode, we talk about a variety of subjects relating to the impact of COVID-19 on West Virginia, including broadband and telehealth, the CARES Act, the business climate, and what our National Guard members are doing to help.In segment 1, United States Senator Shelley Moore Capito and Brendan Carr, Commissioner of the Federal Communications Commission, join us for a conversation on broadband and telehealth.  Senator Capito shares with us her concerns: do patients even have access to this technology? She tells us that she's pushing for an expansion under the CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act, to reach those rural areas. Commissioner Carr tells us about the telehealth initiative he is championing, specifically how they are working to bridge the digital divide that some areas experience, in order to provide equal means for doctor visits online. Finally, Senator Capito tells us why she thinks telehealth is going to become a crucial part of our lives, even after the pandemic

On this week's show, we explore three different religions as they experience holidays and holy seasons, with special emphasis on how stay-at-home orders are affecting their congregations. We also talk about the latest efforts in Washington, as well as where you can go for some uplifting stories, if COVID-19 news has you down.In segment 1, United States Senator Joe Manchin tells us what is going on in Washington amid COVID-19, including how they're looking to provide more relief for hospitals, because he doesn't believe the stimulus did enough. He also talks about where you can go for assistance during the pandemic, as well as his new project, West Virginia Strong, where they are honoring people who do good deeds for others out of the kindness of their hearts.In segment 2, Bishop Mark Brennan of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston joins us to have a conversation about Easter, including the importance of the holiday on the Christian calendar, as well as how technology is allowing churches around the world to sti

On this week's episode, we continue our conversation on COVID-19, with guests talking about the scams running rampant in the nation right now, what you need to watch out for to keep yourself safe, and the latest election and education news. We also take a moment to honor Bill Withers, legendary West Virginia singer-songwriter, as we learn the sad news of his passing.In segment 1, Mike Stuart, United States Attorney for the Southern District of West Virginia, talks  about the West Virginia Coronavirus Fraud Task Force, a joint state and federal operation, and how one of its main goals is to make sure the proper equipment gets to where it needs to be. He assures us that we will make it through this, if we just listen to the professionals.In segment 2, West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey tells us his hands are full with scammers and that his office is working around the clock to keep us safe, details the types of scams most common right now, and talks about the one of the main factors behind the deci

On this week's episode, we continue our coverage of the impact of COVID-19 on the Mountain state. Our guests branch out beyond the basics to tell you about the impact the virus has on the homeless, politics, voting, and even finances.In segment 1, Dr. Sherri Young with the Kanawha-Charleston Health Department gives us the most recent total of confirmed cases in Kanawha County (accurate as of Thursday morning, which is when this show is recorded; check the Health Department's website for updated numbers), and explains why there are discrepancies between COVID-19 statistics on county heath department websites and the statistics on the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources website. She also says it is our responsibility to stay away from others and implement social distancing, and that we should all pay attention to trends and take this seriously even while our numbers seem low.In segment 2, Dr. Angie Settle, Chief Executive Officer of West Virginia Health Right, breaks down for us who the organ

On this week's episode, we share segments from our WOWK COVID-19 special, "Facts Over Fear," in which West Virginia Governor Jim Justice and other top state officials address concerns amid the coronavirus pandemic. Later in the show, United States Representative Carol Miller shares advice that we should all aim to remember, and Steve Roberts addresses unemployment concerns.In segment 1, we share a portion of our WOWK COVID-19 special, "Facts Over Fear." Governor Jim Justice shares how being prepared has helped us combat the virus, shares his thoughts on restricting travel, and tells us the most important thing we can do right now: be "mountaineer strong." Dr. Clay Marsh, Vice President and Executive Dean of Health Sciences at West Virginia University, breaks down mortality rate numbers, talks about the advantages of living in a state with natural barriers and distance between people, and tells us how we can avoid overwhelming hospitals.In segment 2, another portion of "Facts Over Fear," West Virginia State He

On this week's episode, guests talk with us about all things COVID-19, including the impact on businesses and schools, what West Virginia is doing to prepare for a possible future outbreak, and expert information and advice on how disease spreads and how you can protect yourself.In segment 1, Dr. Cathy Slemp, West Virginia State Health Officer and Commissioner of DHHR’s Bureau for Public Health, breaks down COVID-19 for our audience, telling us how (and how quickly) disease spreads, how far away from others you should be to avoid catching an illness, and the population that should take extra precaution. She also explains the goal behind prevention, which is not necessarily to keep people from getting sick.In segment 2, Speaker of the House Roger Hanshaw uses his background in chemistry to give us insight into West Virginia's preparations, including the budgeting of money for quick use in case of a coronavirus outbreak. And as a small reprieve from all the COVID-19 talk, he tells us about a few accomplishments

On this week's episode, guests discuss the investigation at the VA Medical Center in Clarksburg, ongoing city and county trials against opioid manufacturers, prescription drug transparency, and Red Cross Month.In segment 1, West Virginia Attorney Tony O'Dell talks about the progress in the Clarksburg VA Medical Center investigation, including the first lawsuit filed on behalf of one of the affected families and the significance of the person of interest to the case.In segment 2, Attorney Rusty Webb tells us about the Huntington and Cabell County trial against opioid manufacturers, with emphasis on the ultimate outcome he'd like to see as a result of the case.In segment 3, AARP WV State Director Gaylene Miller discusses with us some of the legislation going back and forth at the capitol, including prescription drug affordability and transparency, and helping both senior citizens and their family caregivers.In segment 4, Erica Mani, Chief Executive Officer at Red Cross WV Region, talks all things Red Cross Mont

On this week's episode, guests highlight important parts of the legislative session, including the state's proposed budget and a bill that would let students study the Bible in an academic setting, and also share any concerns they hope to have addressed before the end of session.In segment 1, Republican Senator Craig Blair talks about the proposed budget, including any progress toward an agreement, and tells us about the recovery process after his traffic accident.In segment 2, Democratic Senator Corey Palumbo shares legislative session highlights and tells us which bills he hopes to see pass, talks about the parts of the proposed budget that surprised him, and tells us how working together can move the state forward.In segment 3, Delegate Kevan Bartlett talks all things religion and politics, focusing primarily on his proposed bill, which would allow high school students to take an elective academic course about the Bible.In segment 4, Delegate Mike Pushkin tells us his problems with the House version of the

On this week's episode of Inside West Virginia Politics, our guests give their thoughts on the recent announcement that Fairmont Regional Medical Center will be closing its doors, and talk about other issues important to the state.In segment 1, United States Senator Joe Manchin responds to the hospital closure, saying we cannot let Marion County go without medical care, and also tells us about his tweet war with President Trump.In segment 2, West Virginia Delegate Amy Summers talks about some of the accomplishments at the Capitol so far, including the approval of bills that aren't necessarily headliners, but do impact daily life. She also gives us insight into how FRMC closing could impact the Mountain state.In segment 3, Republican State Senator Rollan Roberts gives his thoughts on the state's tax plan, and talks about an issue that is ever-present in the United States, but has lately flown under the radar - vaping.And in segment 4, Democratic Senator Roman Preszioso addresses concerns about the Fairmont hos

On this week's episode, guests talk with us about the impact of greyhound racing on West Virginia's economy, the ongoing investigation into the suspicious deaths at the VA Medical Center in Clarksburg, and the West Virginia Schools for the Deaf and Blind.In segment 1, Democratic Senator William Ihlenfeld talks about why the investigation into the suspicious deaths at the VA Medical Center in Clarksburg is taking so much time, and tells us why the loss of greyhound racing would be devastating to the area.In segment 2, Senate Majority Whip Ryan Weld, a veteran and an attorney, shares his thoughts on the VA investigation, the impact of greyhound racing on the Mountain state, and the Tim Tebow bill.In segment 3, Democratic Senator Mike Romano talks about the intermediate court of appeals, the Tim Tebow bill, and why his opinion has changed on greyhound racing.In segment 4, Republican Delegate Ruth Rowan tells us all about the West Virginia Schools for the Deaf and Blind, highlighting the student performance at th

On today's episode, guests talk about the conclusion of the presidential impeachment trial, the ongoing investigation at Clarksburg's VA Medical Center, the fight against opioids, and how cell phone voting could impact this election cycle.In segment 1, United States Senator Shelley Moore Capito  shares her frustrations about the ongoing investigation into the suspicious deaths at the VA Medical Center in Clarksburg, gives her opinion on the State of the Union Address, and tells us why she voted to acquit President Donald Trump.In segment 2, we talk to Republican congressional candidate Matt Hahn, M.D.,  about why health care is the central topic of his campaign. He also tells us why he thinks division is a real problem, and addresses other issues West Virginia is currently facing.In segment 3, Secretary of State Mac Warner addresses all things cell phone voting, including the Iowa caucus meltdown and why the technology is so important to the Mountain state specifically.In segment 4, U.S. Attorney Mike Stuart

On today's episode, guests discuss new developments in the ongoing VA Medical Center investigation, as well as various issues going on the state, including foster care, technology, renewable energy, and medical and adult use cannabis. In segment 1, Speaker of the House Roger Hanshaw reacts to news that a federal grand jury has convened in Clarksburg in the suspicious deaths at the VA Medical Center, and talks about issues going on in the state, including foster care, the state's tech industry, and the Mountaineer Impact Fund.In segment 2, Democratic Delegate Shawn Fluharty talks about bills that would legalize or decriminalize marijuana in the Mountain state, efforts to make West Virginia a technological hub, and what the newest VA Medical Center update could mean for the investigation.In segment 3, Republican State Senator Mike Azinger tells us not only why he's opposed to legalizing adult use cannabis, but also why he is wary of the state pursuing medical marijuana.In segment 4, Democratic Delegate Evan Han

On today's episode, we hear from Republican members of West Virginia's congressional delegation about multiple issues, including their joint bill targeting the ongoing homicide investigation at the Clarksburg VA Medical Center and the presidential impeachment trial. We also talk to a Democratic delegate, whose recently proposed bill would put a cap on insulin co-pays.In segment 1, Republican Congressman David McKinley talks about the impeachment process, the investigation into the suspicious deaths at the VA Medical Center in Clarksburg, and his feelings on the plan to end the use of fossil fuels by 2050.In segment 2, Republican Congresswoman Carol Miller tells us about the most important part of her joint bill with Congressmen David McKinley and Alex Mooney, how transportation projects will impact economic development, and why she voted against the articles of impeachment.In segment 3, Republican Congressman Alex Mooney shares the issues he feels are important as he runs for reelection, talks about introduci

On this week's episode, we take a look at the proposed repeal of the business inventory tax, rainy day funds, and one delegate's selfless organ donation.In segment 1, Republican Senator Eric Tarr shares his experience of running the Senate Finance Committee while committee chair Craig Blair is recovering, and tells us why he believes the proposed repeal of the business and inventory tax would benefit the state.In segment 2, Democratic Senate Minority Leader Roman Prezioso talks about why he thinks a repeal of the business and inventory tax should proceed with caution, and shares his opinion on the development of another rainy day fund.In segment 3, Seth DiStefano, Policy Outreach Director with the Center on Budget and Policy joins us in number-crunching after the annual West Virginia Budget Breakfast and comments on the recent State of the State Address, including where he thinks the governor should invest money instead of establishing a rainy day fund.And finally, in segment 4, Delegate Sean Hornbuckle refle

On this week's episode, our guests reflect on the recent State of the State Address, the status of the Fairness Act, and Ramaco Carbon coming to West Virginia.In segment 1, West Virginia Governor Jim Justice talks about the potential benefits of Ramaco Carbon coming to the Mountain State, as well as the resolution of the U.S. Department of Justice's investigation, which was launched after questions arose about the financing of his Military Tribute tournament at the Greenbrier.In segment 2, Senate President Mitch Carmichael reflects on the governor's recent State of the State Address. He also talks about the status of medical marijuana and where he stands on the Fairness Act.In segment 3, Josh Sword, President of AFL-CIO shares his hopes for this legislative session, including his thoughts on a possible repeal of the business and inventory tax, the future of right-to-work legislation, and why he expects to be on the defense this session.In segment 4, House of Delegates Minority Leader Tim Miley gives us a diff

On this week’s episode, we take a look at some of the issues that are important to and will be pushed by groups in the 2020 West Virginia Legislative session.In segment 1, Tom Hunter, the Associate State Director of Communication for AARP West Virginia, talks about the issues they will be advocating about in the upcoming legislative session, including family caregivers, fraud & elder abuse.In segment 2, WOWK 13 News Digital Reporter Erin Noon talks about her experience covering a caravan that traveled from West Virginia to Canada to buy cheaper insulin.In segment 3, Jason Huffman, the State Director for the West Virginia Chapter of Americans for Prosperity, talks about the issues they will be advocating about in the upcoming legislative session, including licensure, regulations, and comprehensive tax reform.In segment 4, West Virginia Delegate Mike Pushkin (D-Kanawha) gives his thoughts on the 34 correction officer trainees who were photographed giving a Nazi salute.