CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The West Virginia Republican Party is asking a House of Delegates candidate to withdraw his name from the May 10 primary election.
The request follows a recent decision by the Wood County Republican Executive Committee, in which the body asked Republican voters to oppose Robert Fehrenbacher’s bid for the 11th House District. Fehrenbacher had filed a certificate of candidacy with the West Virginia Secretary of State’s Office with the belief he was a registered Republican, but Fehrenbacher was actually not affiliated with any political party at the time.
“I filed in good faith believing I was a Republican,” Fehrenbacher told The Parkersburg News and Sentinel.
State Republican Party Chairman Mark Harris contended Tuesday that such action is unacceptable.
“Simply put, lying on a sworn statement is not acceptable behavior for those who wish to be elected officials,” he said in a press release. “In addition, if he were to win the primary election, it is questionable as to whether or not Mr. Fehrenbacher would be able to remain on the general election ballot, potentially endangering a safe Republican seat.”
Roger Conley is also running for the Republican nomination.