CHARLESTON, W.Va. — A longtime state corrections officer is the newest member of West Virginia’s House of Delegates.
Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced Tuesday that William “Bill” Vest, of Oak Hill, will serve out the remainder of former delegate Elliott Pritt’s term. Vest will represent the 50th District through the rest of this year. Pritt resigned last month amid a federal investigation into alleged sex crimes against a minor and remains in federal custody.
Vest has worked for more than four decades in public safety and administrative roles. He retired four years ago as the acting administrator/superintendent of the Beckley Correctional Center. He also previously served as deputy warden and associate warden of security at Mount Olive Correctional Complex in Fayette County.
Vest was one of three candidates that Morrisey considered for the seat, along with Brent Hudnall and Eric Walton.
“With his extensive background in law enforcement, state corrections administration, and community leadership, Bill understands the values of hard work and accountability,” Morrisey said. “He will be a strong, reliable voice for his constituents, and I am confident he will serve with distinction in Charleston.”
Vest graduated from Oak Hill High School and went on to attend Glenville State College. He secured certifications from the U.S. Military Police School, along with state corrections academies in both West Virginia and North Carolina. Vest spent time as a Military Police officer in the U.S. Army. He currently lives in Oak Hill.
The 50th District race will be on November ballots, but Republicans will not have a nominee. Pritt withdrew from the ballot and, in accordance with a state law passed in 2024, parties cannot appoint a replacement in the event of a withdrawal. Write-in candidates have until September 15 to announce their intention to run for the seat.