CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Older West Virginians are concerned about the economy, opioid crisis, health care and personal finances according to a new poll from AARP West Virginia.
The organization released its 2018 West Virginia Voters 50+ Report on Tuesday, in which jobs and the economy are the leading issues among West Virginians who are at least 50 years old. Two-thirds of respondents said the national economy is growing, but seven in every 10 say they continue to struggle with personal finances.
The results were released in light of the national organization’s “Be the Difference. Vote” campaign to encourage older Americans to vote in November.
“We know that the 50-plus voter is the most reliable voter in West Virginia as well as across the country, but even during midterms, the turnout turns down,” said Gaylene Miller, state director of AARP West Virginia.
“We want them to remember how important every vote is, particularly when you look at critical issues like Medicare, Social Security, caregiving and social security.”
Around 300,000 West Virginians are AARP West Virginia members. AARP does not endorse candidates for office.