West Virginia Republican Party Chairman Melody Potter has resigned, effective immediately.
In a letter to state executive committee members, Potter cited the health of her parents. “Now, the time has come that I must focus my attention on my family,” she wrote.
In a statement on social media, party co-chairman Roman Stauffer said he would assume the duties of acting chairman. Stauffer had been second-in-command at the state GOP and also served as campaign manager for Gov. Jim Justice’s re-election campaign.
“We thank Melody Potter for her decades of service to the West Virginia Republican Party. We have achieved tremendous success under her leadership. We are praying for her and encouraging West Virginians to pray for her as she cares for her parents. Today is about thanking Melody Potter for her service and accomplishments,” Stauffer stated.
I thank Melody Potter for her years of service to the @WVGOP. Please keep her in your prayers as she cares for her elderly parents. As Co-Chairman of the @WVGOP, I will serve as Acting Chairman until the @WVGOP State Committee selects a new Chairman. #WVPol https://t.co/eh0iawh2KE
— Roman Stauffer (@RomanStaufferWV) January 11, 2021
Potter told fellow Republicans in the letter, “Thank you for your commitment and hard work for the Republican Party. You’ve been part of the best team we’ve had since I’ve been involved. You’ve been part of the historic gains we’ve made at the statehouse. Thank you.”
Republicans dominated the most recent election in West Virginia, starting with President Trump’s dominance at the top of the ballot.
U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito, a Republican, won re-election, as did the three Republicans who hold the state’s congressional seats.
Justice, a Republican, won re-election for governor and Republicans now hold all elected executive branch positions after Riley Moore defeated longtime Treasurer John Perdue, a Democrat.
Republicans won supermajorities in both the Senate and House of Delegates.
Potter was elected leader of the West Virginia GOP in 2018, following Conrad Lucas. For many years, she was active with the Republican Party in Kanawha County.
Capito tonight praised Potter’s dedication and service. “Melody Potter worked tirelessly on behalf of our principles and candidates,” Capito stated.
As #RNC Member & #WVGOP Chair Melody Potter worked tirelessly on behalf of our principles & candidates. Her leadership overseeing the Victory 2020 effort led to an historical election for the WVGOP. Melody is a good friend & I appreciate her service. I wish her & Rob good health.
— Capito for WV (@CapitoforWV) January 12, 2021