CHARLESTON, W.Va. — As U.S. Attorney Booth Goodwin reportedly mulls a run for governor next year, the former West Virginia Democratic Party chairman likes the idea.
George Carenbauer appeared Wednesday on MetroNews “Talkline” and said the 43-year-old Goodwin would be a strong candidate in what could be a crowded field.
“He’s very articulate, he’s very good. Nobody has criticized his handling of the office at all. He’s done a splendid job as U.S. attorney,” Carenbauer said. “He would be able to refocus the Democratic Party on fundamental issues.”
Republican pollster Mark Blankenship said Goodwin has generated “significant” name identification on “tough on crime issues” but ultimately must deal with the Obama factor, because Goodwin was appointed by the President.
“Whoever can best explain their differences or their similarities is going to be more successful,” Blankenship told “Talkline” Wednesday.
Goodwin has never run for political office but Carenbauer said he’s well-connected “to former Sen. Rockefeller, to Sen. Manchin, to Gov. Tomblin and to former Gov. Caperton—strong personal relationships.” That could give Goodwin a boost in fund-raising for a general election campaign, Carenbauer said.
Goodwin’s possible candidacy would likely be impacted by a decision from U.S. Senator Joe Manchin on whether to leave Washington and return to West Virginia and run for governor. Manchin said Tuesday he’ll decide over the next few months. Carenbauer said if Manchin returns then you would have to “defer” to the senator.
Without Manchin it could be a crowded primary. State Senate President Jeff Kessler has already filed some papers indicating a possible run for governor next year.
Goodwin didn’t tip his hand on a possible gubernatorial bid. when speaking Tuesday with “Talkline” host Hoppy Kercheval.
“Right now I’m focused on the work I’m doing as United States Attorney,” Goodwin said.
Goodwin’s father Joseph is a current federal judge and former West Virginia Democratic Party chair. His mother, Kay, is the state Secretary for Education and the Arts. His wife, Amy, is West Virginia tourism commissioner.