By Esteban Fernandez
Times West Virginian
CHARLESTON — Gov. Patrick Morrisey filled two vacancies in the West Virginia Legislature Tuesday, including the District 74 House seat that serves Marion County.
Morrisey appointed former House Delegate Guy Ward to fill Mike DeVault’s seat. On Jan. 12, DeVault announced his resignation due to health concerns.
“Guy Ward has a long history of serving the people of West Virginia,” Morrisey said in a prepared release. “He understands the importance of protecting our constitutional freedoms, supporting life, backing our law enforcement and first responders, and helping small businesses grow.”
Ward previously served as a member of the House of Delegates, where he built a strong record of advocating for conservative values and practical solutions for West Virginia families, according to the press release. During his time in office, Ward was a steadfast supporter of the Second Amendment, a strong advocate for pro-life policies, and a champion for small businesses across the state.
Ward has also served as a Marion County Commissioner and Mayor of White Hall.
Morrisey also appointment Trenton Barnhart to serve in the West Virginia State Senate District 3, a vacancy created by the retirement of State Senator Donna Boley.
“Delegate Barnhart has served West Virginians in the 7th District with energy, integrity, and a deep commitment to conservative principles,” said Governor Morrisey. “I am honored to appoint him to the West Virginia Senate to succeed Senator Donna Boley, whose decades of service have shaped our state for the better.”
Delegate Barnhart currently serves at the Assistant Majority Whip, was the Vice Chair for the Workforce Development Committee while also serving on the Banking and Insurance, Government Organization, Health and Human Resources and Small Business and Economic Development Committees.
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