W.Va.’s gubernatorial candidates, Morrisey and Williams, will debate

FAIRMONT, W.Va. (WCHS) — Gubernatorial Candidates for West Virginia Republican Patrick Morrisey And Democrat Steve Williams faced off on Tuesday night in the first and last debates of the campaign, just days before the general election.

During the MetroNews-sponsored event, the state’s attorney general spoke with Huntington’s mayor about important issues. Hall of Fame broadcaster Hoppy Kercheval moderated the discussion, which was held at Fairmont State University.

The debate started with the controversial topic of abortion. Morrisey argued for the issue to remain a matter for the states, while Williams opposed a statewide ban.

“I trust women to make their own decisions. My opponent does not trust that women can make these decisions,” Williams said. “Frankly, as the state legislature makes these decisions, I think what we’re starting to see in West Virginia and elsewhere in the country is that we’re at a point where we’re starting to see the slippery slope that’s happening occurs. as a result. There are women who are losing the health care options available to them.”

Both candidates signaled support for in vitro fertilization.

Recreational cannabis was viewed favorably by Williams, but Morrisey suggested more research is needed.

“There’s still a lot of work to be done,” Morrisey said. “West Virginia is now a medical cannabis state. A lot of research needs to be done to evaluate all the pros, cons, and effects on the human body regarding cannabis. I have always advocated doing research before making a big decision. I think we should at least do that before we begin the process of legalizing recreational marijuana.

Education was another topic of conversation that separated the candidates. Williams pushed for school boards to have more autonomy.

“Give some freedom to local school boards to make certain decisions. So many decisions are being made from Charleston right now,” the mayor said. “Honestly, I think this is the ultimate example of arrogance.”

Morrisey said that as governor he would monitor and assess all government agencies, including school districts. The attorney general suggested the state move forward with the Hope Scholarship program and conduct a financial analysis.

“I am a strong supporter of advancing the Hope Scholarship,” Morrisey explains. “I think this is one way we can make faster progress in terms of boosting educational attainment. That could make a big difference in West Virginia and allow us to measure the improvement we are seeing through the Hope Scholarship and through school choice programs.”

Williams countered, suggesting an expansion of the voucher program would cater to the state’s wealthiest families.

“Given the Hope Scholarship and freedom of choice in schools, this all sounds to me like code for privatization. The money goes to Hope Scholarships. A lot of people use it outside of the state of West Virginia,” the Democrat said. “What we will ultimately find is that only the wealthy go to the Hope Scholarship schools. Everything points to that.”

From the topic of education, both candidates shared their thoughts on what the West Virginia Public Employees Insurance Agency is facing a premium increase for the 2026 financial year.

Morrisey said the problem stems from Obamacare and urged residents to attend PEIA board meetings to make suggestions for a long-term solution.

“They are struggling with the cost of prescription drugs. Medical costs are skyrocketing. We need to be even more aggressive when it comes to drug company rebates. We can do that,” the Republican said. “Individually, we need more competition overall within our health care system in West Virginia.”

Williams cited his past experiences struggling with retirement plans during his time as mayor of Huntington.

“There is no easy way there. The bottom line at PEIA is to make sure they are financed properties,” he said. “I believe those who argue for going ahead want to privatize.”

Candidates stood on either side of a proposed change that will appear on West Virginia ballots in 2024 about medically assisted suicide.

Williams said enshrining the ban in the state constitution eliminates freedom, while Morrisey supports the measure.

“I think we need to protect our most vulnerable from assisted suicide,” Morrisey said. “I recognize that it’s not on the books at the moment, but what that means is that the Constitution is a further protection. We’re going even further, so I’m going to vote yes on that amendment.”

Mayor Williams made a closing statement to distance himself from his political opponent.

“West Virginia can be much better than what it is now. The reality is that we operate in a global market,” he said. “I’m not just talking about the backyard fights. I say we should be able to compete on the other side of the country.”

Morrisey joined the Trump campaign and expressed interest in working closely with the next president.

“We are at a pivotal point in our country’s future. There is a lot of talk about the presidential race,” Morrisey said. “I fear for Kamala Harris and the prospects of her becoming president. That’s while I’m all for Donald Trump and I’m lucky that he supported me in this race.”

Eyewitness News wants to know who you think won the debate. To have your say, vote in our online poll below.

Prior to the debate Eyewitness News spoke with both candidates to gain perspective on the policy as part of an ongoing process “Beyond the Stage” series. These interviews are included in this story.

Voters in West Virginia will make their choice for a leader on Tuesday, November 5. The polling stations are open on election day from 6:30 am to 7:30 pm. To find your polling station, click here.