CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia’s 2026 Primary Election is shaping up to be one of the most active in recent years, with more than 2,600 candidates filing to run for state, county, and municipal offices. The filing period, which opened January 12, closed at midnight on Saturday, January 31, with Secretary of State Kris Warner keeping offices in Charleston, Clarksburg, and Martinsburg open until the final deadline.
As of the close of business on Wednesday, February 4, a total of 2,661 candidates had officially filed through the Secretary of State’s Office and the state’s 55 county clerks. Warner noted that additional filings may still arrive by mail, provided they carry a postmark dated on or before January 31.
“There is a lot of interest in seeking party nominations and election at the upcoming Primary Election,” Warner said. “It’s encouraging to see so many people who want to become or remain public servants.”
Of the filings recorded so far, 2,047 candidates are seeking county and municipal positions, while 614 candidates filed for state-level offices. The current party breakdown includes:
- 1,349 Republicans
- 729 Democrats
- 582 Non-Partisan candidates
- 1 Mountain Party candidate
Election officials are now reviewing each Certificate of Announcement for accuracy. Candidates who filed by mail but lack a timely postmark cannot be accepted.
Those wishing to withdraw from the ballot have until February 17 to file a Certificate of Withdrawal with the same office where they originally filed. After that date, the Secretary of State’s Office will certify the final list of candidates for the May 12 Primary Election, pending any legal disqualifications or appointments.
Warner also reminded candidates of their requirement to file a Personal Financial Disclosure Statement with the West Virginia Ethics Commission within ten days of filing.
Information on elections, voter registration, and absentee voting is available at GoVoteWV.com.
