West Virginia Governor Jim Justice will replace Joe Manchin in the US Senate

Independent Joe Manchin has held the seat since 2010. A former Democrat, Manchin often defied his party's leadership while remaining at odds with former President Donald Trump. However, Manchin announced in November 2023 that he would not seek a third term.

The judiciary's victory is a pivotal moment for the Republican Party as it seeks to regain control of the Senate. West Virginia has shifted sharply to the right over the past two decades, making it a must-see for Republican strategists.

West Virginia 2024 election results: Live updates, maps for every state race

The judiciary benefits from the heritage of his home state

Jim Justice, a businessman who founded Bluestone Farms in 1977, has built the operation into the leading grain producer on the East Coast. With a net worth of over $500 million, he is one of the richest residents in West Virginia.

In 2015, Justice launched his campaign for governor. Initially registered as a Republican, he ran as a Democrat and defeated Republican candidate Bill Cole. But just seven months after taking office, Justice switched back to the Republican Party and announced his decision at a rally with then-President Donald Trump in West Virginia.

Watch Babydog and Governor Jim Justice's full speech

West Virginia Governor Jim Justice and his dog Babydog addressed the 2024 Republican National Convention.

During his tenure, the judge has highlighted several achievements, including a state budget surplus and the Roads to Prosperity program aimed at improving infrastructure. His administration has also prioritized tax cuts and Second Amendment rights.

Glenn Elliott, an attorney and former mayor of Wheeling, West Virginia, served as legislative assistant to the late West Virginia Senator Robert C. Byrd. Elliott's campaign focused on key issues such as health care, restoring women's reproductive rights, and improving child care and workforce development.

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Jeremy Yurow is a Hawaii-based political reporter for the USA TODAY Network. Reach him at [email protected] or on X, formerly Twitter @JeremyYurow