CHARLESTON, W.Va. –The West Virginia Republican Party says that Boone County has officially flipped Republican in voter registration for the first time in recorded history.
According to the parties’ release Wednesday, Boone County has stood as the democrat stronghold, rooted in the region’s deep ties to organized labor and the coal industry. They also noted that the county was one of just a handful of West Virginia counties who voted for President Obama in 2008.
“This is a massive moment for my home, Boone County,” Party chairman Josh Holstein, who is a Boone County delegate said. “In the past few election cycles, local Republican candidates have earned the trust of Boone County voters at the ballot box and now that trust has been reflected in voter registration as well. This represents more than numbers, but it represents confidence in leadership, and a recognition of what Boone County voters have known for years: Democrats don’t represent every day West Virginians anymore.”
Holstein added, “I am especially proud to have led this effort here at home alongside so many grassroots activists who have worked to flip Boone County for decades. For the last decade, I worked to register voters across Boone County, and to see this transformation take place in my county is incredibly meaningful. Boone County voters have sent a clear message: they want leadership that stands up for coal and energy independence, supports local jobs, protects their freedoms, and respects their way of life. The Republican Party will always be proud to stand with them.”
Boone County Republican Party Chairman Lee Barker joined in on the praise.
“This moment is the result of years of hard work by grassroots and conservatives across Boone County. Voters here have watched the direction of the Democratic Party and made a deliberate choice to move toward Republican leadership that better reflects their values. This is a proud day for our county and we’re just getting started,” she said.