State of West Virginia secondary Archives: on Gun Control


Ben Salango: Protect WV gun owners from federal overreach

Salango is a responsible gun owner who is pro-Second Amendment. He has had a concealed weapon permit for over a decade. Ben grew up hunting in the woods of southern West Virginia and understands the hunting tradition that is engrained in our culture. He believes that law-abiding gun owners should be protected from federal overreach.
Source: 2020 West Virginia gubernatorial website BenSalango.com Oct 9, 2020

Jay Wolfe: Bearing arms is an individual right

Source: West Virginia Congressional 2008 Political Courage Test Aug 8, 2008

Jeff Kessler: Don't require permit and training for concealed carry

Kessler voted in favor of a bill that eliminated the requirement for a permit and training before a person can carry a concealed weapon.
Source: W.V. MetroNews on 2016 West Virginia gubernatorial race Jun 23, 2015

Jim Justice: The Second Amendment is ingrained in me

I'm a sportsman. I love the outdoors. The second amendment is ingrained in me forevermore. There is no question about it, whether you love me or don't love me. It's just simple fact.
Source: 2020 West Virginia State of the State address Jan 8, 2020

Joe Manchin III: Background checks ok; not no ban on semi-automatic weapons

Q: Support more restrictive gun control legislation? Restrict semi-automatic weapons?

Joe Manchin (D): Opposes restrictions in most areas. Opposed banning semi-automatic weapons, but supports background checks for gun show or internet sales.

Patrick Morrisey (R): No. Will keep hands of "gun grabbers" & "Washington liberals" off of American guns. A+ rating from NRA.

Source: 2018 CampusElect Issue Guide on West Virginia Senate race Oct 9, 2018

John Buckley: Freedom to carry AND freedom to marry

I don't fit the narrow mold of most political commentators. They just don't know what to make of me.

I'm for limited government and free enterprise; I'm also for peace and civil liberties; I support the freedom to marry as well as the freedom to carry. I believe in "live and let live." I'm for limited government and free enterprise; I'm also for peace and civil liberties; I support the freedom to marry as well as the freedom to carry. I believe in "live and let live."

Source: Charleston Daily Mail on 2014 West Virginia Senate race Aug 12, 2014

Michael Folk: No background checks; yes concealed carry

Q: Do you support restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns?

A: No.

Q: Should background checks be required on gun sales between private citizens at gun shows?

A: No.

Q: Should citizens be allowed to carry concealed guns?

A: Yes.

Q: Should a license be required for gun possession?

A: No.

Source: West Virginia State 2012 Political Courage Test Nov 1, 2012

Michael Folk: Red flag gun laws unconstitutional & unacceptable

Red flag laws have been implemented in several anti-gun states. Without a hearing, and without ever being even charged with a crime, you will have your constitutional rights trampled and your property (supposedly protected by the Second Amendment) confiscated. You will be forced to pay expensive legal fees to clear your name. However, no penalty under these laws exists for those who wrongfully accuse you. Unconstitutional. Unacceptable.
Source: WVPress.org on 2020 West Virginia Governor race Aug 7, 2019

Natalie Tennant: Vehemently disagrees with Obama administration on gun rights

At a women-focused Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee [fundraiser event], First Lady Michelle Obama noted that ObamaCare narrowly passed and gun control legislation was defeated by a narrow margin, which is why "it is critical that we elect Michelle Nunn, Alison Grimes (and) Natalie Tennant."

"It is critical because we all know that it's not enough to elect Barack Obama President if we don't give him a Congress that will help him keep moving this country forward. We know that now. We've experienced it," the First Lady said. That's an applause line in Manhattan, but not so much in Mingo County.

When I asked the Tennant campaign for her reaction to Obama's comments, a spokeswoman said, "Natalie Tennant has been clear that she is an independent voice who vehemently disagrees with the administration on a number of issues that are important to West Virginians, including gun rights, supporting the coal industry and the roll out of the Affordable Care Act."

Source: West Virginia MetroNews on 2014 West Virginia Senate race Nov 20, 2013

Patrick Morrisey: Fights the "gun grabbers"

A strong defender of the Second Amendment, Morrisey has earned A+ ratings from the NRA and the West Virginia Citizen's Defense League. He has secured dozens of gun reciprocity agreements with other states to expand West Virginians' rights, and he took on the gun grabbers in court.
Source: 2018 West Virginia Senatorial website PatrickMorrisey.com Oct 1, 2017

Patrick Morrisey: Keep Washington liberal gun grabbers off our guns

Q: Support more restrictive gun control legislation? Restrict semi-automatic weapons?

Joe Manchin (D): Opposes restrictions in most areas. Opposed banning semi-automatic weapons, but supports background checks for gun show or internet sales.

Patrick Morrisey (R): No. Will keep hands of "gun grabbers" & "Washington liberals" off of American guns. A+ rating from NRA.

Source: 2018 CampusElect Issue Guide on West Virginia Senate race Oct 9, 2018

Paula Jean Swearengin: Common-sense gun regulations & background checks

Q: What measures could help prevent gun violence and mass shootings?

A: I support the 2nd Amendment, but common sense gun measures are needed. Every loophole for background checks should be closed. Online sales and gun shows should face more strict regulation. Reducing poverty and improving the health and education quality of our communities can reduce violence of all types.

Q: What measures do you favor on background checks for gun purchases?

A: The overwhelming majority of citizens support common-sense gun measures. Background checks should be expanded to include purchases made at gun shows and private sales. The reporting criteria for checks must also be mandated and further expanded to include red-flag behaviors, like non-gun violence, threats, mental health incidents, and school disciplinary actions. This will make background checks more effective overall.

Source: The Herald-Dispatch on 2018 West Virginia Senatorial race Mar 27, 2018

Richard Ojeda: Deaths and injuries every month from senseless gun violence

Ojeda tweeted that "75-100 folks (are) killed a month and over 200 wounded by senseless gun violence." In fact, Ojeda understated the number of deaths and injuries from guns. His numbers are roughly right for gun deaths and injuries per day, rather than per month. We rate his statement Mostly False.
Source: PolitiFact fact-checking on 2020 West Virginia Senate race Oct 17, 2019

Woody Thrasher: I am a strong defender of the Second Amendment

On Republican values: "I think the Republican governor needs to represent Republican values," Thrasher said. "I am a strong defender of the right to life and the Second Amendment." Thrasher went on to say that he believes he adheres to the Republican party platform more so than his opponent.
Source: Martinsburg Journal-News on 2020 West Virginia governor race Feb 2, 2020

Alex Mooney: A+ Rating from the National Rifle Association

Congressman Mooney has an A+ Rating from the National Rifle Association (NRA). Mooney understands the important role that firearms play in protecting our freedom, our family, and our property. The Second Amendment is a vital part of our Bill of Rights and Congressman Mooney joined in a successful effort to stop the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms from banning certain ammunition used for hunting and other purposes.
Source: 2024 West Virginia Senate campaign website MooneyForWV.com Apr 24, 2023

Moore Capito: Against letting schools make all dorms "gun-free zones"

Delegates Sean Hornbuckle, D-Cabell, and Danielle Walker, D-Monongalia, proposed that higher learning institutions should have the option to fully restrict concealed carry in some residence halls, which he argued would accommodate students who wish to live in a dorm free of firearms. House Judiciary chair Moore Capito, R-Kanawha, challenged the amendment saying it was too broad and wouldn't prevent schools from making "gun-free zones" in all dorms.
Source: The Daily Athenaeum on 2024 West Virginia Gubernatorial race Feb 21, 2023

Jim Justice: Allow permit holders to carry weapons on campus

NRA-ILA statement in support: The Campus Defense Act allows law-abiding carry permit holders to carry on the campus of a state institution of higher education. Current state law does not prohibit carrying of a defensive firearm on campus, but institution policy may lead to expulsion or termination of employment.BestCollges.com statement in opposition: [Three college] presidents said the [the Act would cost] up to $11.6 million to implement the required safeguards; they have "serious reservations" about the significant public safety challenges, and student mental health challenges. [Two other college] presidents asserted that the boards of governors of their respective institutions are best suited to make campus carry decisions; "We do not support statewide campus carry."

>Legislative Outcome: passed Senate 29-4-1 on Jan/24/23; passed House 84-13-2 on Feb/21/23; signed by Governor Jim Justice on Mar/1/23.

Source: NRA-ILA on West Virginia Legislature voting records SB10 Mar 1, 2023

Moore Capito: Allow permit holders to carry weapons on campus

NRA-ILA statement in support: The Campus Defense Act allows law-abiding carry permit holders to carry on the campus of a state institution of higher education. Current state law does not prohibit carrying of a defensive firearm on campus, but institution policy may lead to expulsion or termination of employment.BestCollges.com statement in opposition: [Three college] presidents said the [the Act would cost] up to $11.6 million to implement the required safeguards; they have "serious reservations" about the significant public safety challenges, and student mental health challenges. [Two other college] presidents asserted that the boards of governors of their respective institutions are best suited to make campus carry decisions; "We do not support statewide campus carry."

>Legislative Outcome: passed Senate 29-4-1 on Jan/24/23; passed House 84-13-2 on Feb/21/23; State Rep. Moore Capito voted YES; signed by Governor Jim Justice on Mar/1/23.

Source: NRA-ILA on West Virginia Legislature voting records SB10 Feb 21, 2023

Mac Warner: No restrictions on gun ownership

Q: 2ND AMENDMENT: What restrictions on gun ownership are needed to protect public safety?

A: None.

Q: Should teachers be allowed to carry guns at school?

A: Yes

Source: AFA iVoterGuide on 2024 West Virginia Gubernatorial race May 14, 2024

Carol Miller: Allow gun in car on school property with firearm permit

SB388: Relating to dangerous weapons: The Legislature finds that the safety and welfare of the citizens of this state are inextricably dependent upon assurances of safety for children attending and persons employed by schools in this state. it shall not be unlawful to possess a firearm or other deadly weapon on or in a private primary or secondary education building, structure or facility when such institution has adopted written policies allowing for possession of firearms on or in the institution’s buildings, structures or facilities.

NRA-ILA summary in favor: Senate Bill 388 allows law-abiding citizens in possession of a concealed firearm permit to transport a firearm onto school property while dropping off or picking up students, as long as the firearm does not leave the motor vehicle.

Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 34-0-0 on Mar/27/17; passed House 94-5-1 on Apr/7/17; State Rep. Carol Miller voted YES; signed by Governor Jim Justice on Apr/26/17.

Source: NRA-ILA on West Virginia State voting records SB388 Apr 17, 2017

Jim Justice: Allow gun in car on school property with firearm permit

SB388: Relating to dangerous weapons: The Legislature finds that the safety and welfare of the citizens of this state are inextricably dependent upon assurances of safety for children attending and persons employed by schools in this state. it shall not be unlawful to possess a firearm or other deadly weapon on or in a private primary or secondary education building, structure or facility when such institution has adopted written policies allowing for possession of firearms on or in the institution’s buildings, structures or facilities.

NRA-ILA summary in favor: Senate Bill 388 allows law-abiding citizens in possession of a concealed firearm permit to transport a firearm onto school property while dropping off or picking up students, as long as the firearm does not leave the motor vehicle.

Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 34-0-0 on Mar/27/17; passed House 94-5-1 on Apr/7/17; signed by Governor Jim Justice on Apr/26/17.

Source: NRA-ILA on West Virginia State voting records SB388 Apr 26, 2017

Michael Folk: Allow gun in car on school property with firearm permit

SB388: Relating to dangerous weapons: The Legislature finds that the safety and welfare of the citizens of this state are inextricably dependent upon assurances of safety for children attending and persons employed by schools in this state. it shall not be unlawful to possess a firearm or other deadly weapon on or in a private primary or secondary education building, structure or facility when such institution has adopted written policies allowing for possession of firearms on or in the institution’s buildings, structures or facilities.

NRA-ILA summary in favor: Senate Bill 388 allows law-abiding citizens in possession of a concealed firearm permit to transport a firearm onto school property while dropping off or picking up students, as long as the firearm does not leave the motor vehicle.

Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 34-0-0 on Mar/27/17; passed House 94-5-1 on Apr/7/17; State Rep. Michael Folk voted YES; signed by Governor Jim Justice on Apr/26/17.

Source: NRA-ILA on West Virginia State voting records SB388 Apr 17, 2017

Moore Capito: Allow gun in car on school property with firearm permit

SB388: Relating to dangerous weapons: The Legislature finds that the safety and welfare of the citizens of this state are inextricably dependent upon assurances of safety for children attending and persons employed by schools in this state. it shall not be unlawful to possess a firearm or other deadly weapon on or in a private primary or secondary education building, structure or facility when such institution has adopted written policies allowing for possession of firearms on or in the institution’s buildings, structures or facilities.

NRA-ILA summary in favor: Senate Bill 388 allows law-abiding citizens in possession of a concealed firearm permit to transport a firearm onto school property while dropping off or picking up students, as long as the firearm does not leave the motor vehicle.

Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 34-0-0 on Mar/27/17; passed House 94-5-1 on Apr/7/17; State Rep. Moore Capito voted YES; signed by Governor Jim Justice on Apr/26/17.

Source: NRA-ILA on West Virginia State voting records SB388 Apr 17, 2017

Riley Moore: Allow gun in car on school property with firearm permit

SB388: Relating to dangerous weapons: The Legislature finds that the safety and welfare of the citizens of this state are inextricably dependent upon assurances of safety for children attending and persons employed by schools in this state. it shall not be unlawful to possess a firearm or other deadly weapon on or in a private primary or secondary education building, structure or facility when such institution has adopted written policies allowing for possession of firearms on or in the institution’s buildings, structures or facilities.

NRA-ILA summary in favor: Senate Bill 388 allows law-abiding citizens in possession of a concealed firearm permit to transport a firearm onto school property while dropping off or picking up students, as long as the firearm does not leave the motor vehicle.

Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 34-0-0 on Mar/27/17; passed House 94-5-1 on Apr/7/17; State Rep. Riley Moore voted YES; signed by Governor Jim Justice on Apr/26/17.

Source: NRA-ILA on West Virginia State voting records SB388 Apr 17, 2017

Ron Stollings: Allow gun in car on school property with firearm permit

SB388: Relating to dangerous weapons: The Legislature finds that the safety and welfare of the citizens of this state are inextricably dependent upon assurances of safety for children attending and persons employed by schools in this state. it shall not be unlawful to possess a firearm or other deadly weapon on or in a private primary or secondary education building, structure or facility when such institution has adopted written policies allowing for possession of firearms on or in the institution’s buildings, structures or facilities.

NRA-ILA summary in favor: Senate Bill 388 allows law-abiding citizens in possession of a concealed firearm permit to transport a firearm onto school property while dropping off or picking up students, as long as the firearm does not leave the motor vehicle.

Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 34-0-0 on Mar/27/17; State Sen. Ron Stollings voted YES; passed House 94-5-1 on Apr/7/17; signed by Governor Jim Justice on Apr/26/17.

Source: NRA-ILA on West Virginia State voting records SB388 Mar 27, 2017

Tom Willis: No red flag laws; no weapon bans

I will defend your right to bear arms without compromise. No red flag laws. No weapon bans. The Second Amendment is non-negotiable.
Source: 2026 West Virginia Senate campaign website TomWillis.com Oct 23, 2025

Tom Willis: Pro-Second Amendment

With only a minutes left, Willis hit the issues, letting voters know he was pro-life and pro-Second Amendment, and pledging to keep the promise of Social Security and Medicare. "My name is Tom Willis and I hope you vote for me," he said before taking a seat.

Jack Newbrough was next. Newbrough sported a sweatshirt, along with work boots, a USS West Virginia baseball cap and a concealed sidearm, which he showed the audience mid-speech while talking about how he personified the Second Amendment.

Source: Task & Purpose e-zzine on 2018 West Virginia Senate race May 3, 2025

  • The above quotations are from State of West Virginia Politicians: secondary Archives.
  • Click here for definitions & background information on Gun Control.
  • Click here for other issues (main summary page).
2024 Presidential contenders on Gun Control:
  Candidates for President & Vice-President:
V.P.Kamala Harris (D-CA)
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.(I-CA)
Chase Oliver(L-GA)
Dr.Jill Stein(D-MA)
Former Pres.Donald Trump(R-FL)
Sen.J.D.Vance(R-OH)
Gov.Tim Walz(D-MN)
Dr.Cornel West(I-NJ)

2024 presidential primary contenders:
Pres.Joe_Biden(D-DE)
N.D.Gov.Doug Burgum(R)
N.J.Gov.Chris_Christie(R)
Fla.Gov.Ron_DeSantis(R)
S.C.Gov.Nikki_Haley(R)
Ark.Gov.Asa_Hutchinson(R)
Former V.P.Mike Pence(R-IN)
U.S.Rep.Dean_Phillips(D-MN)
Vivek_Ramaswamy(R-OH)
S.C.Sen.Tim_Scott(R)
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Page last updated: Feb 06, 2026