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State Senator, 17th Senatorial District

Unexpired term

Vote for
1
Term
4 years
Candidates
2
Election
Nov 3, 2026

What this office does: A state senator votes on West Virginia laws and the state budget in the State Senate; each of the 17 senatorial districts elects two senators to staggered four-year terms.

District covers part of Kanawha County (West Virginia Legislature Senate roster). Unexpired term of former Sen. Eric Nelson, who resigned after being named Secretary of Revenue; Sen. Anne B. Charnock (R) was appointed to the seat by Gov. Patrick Morrisey on February 4, 2025.

CandidatesCompare by issue

Taxes & budget

  • Richie RobbDemocratic

    No documented position found.

  • Anne B. CharnockRepublican

    • Voted for 2026 personal income tax reduction (SB 392).In office
    • Voted for the 2026 state budget bill (SB 250).In office
    • Sponsored amendment exempting honorably discharged veterans from property tax.In office

Education

  • Richie RobbDemocratic

    • Supports teachers and education for economic growth.

  • Anne B. CharnockRepublican

    • Voted for 2026 teacher and State Police pay raise.In office

Economy & jobs

  • Richie RobbDemocratic

    • Supports addressing rising costs for families and small businesses.

  • Anne B. CharnockRepublican

    • Voted for 2025 certified microgrid program law (HB 2014).In office

Health & human services

Government & transparency

  • Richie RobbDemocratic

    • Supports giving communities a voice in major projects.

  • Anne B. CharnockRepublican

    • Sponsored bill allowing county-wide voting centers on election day.In office

Courts & justice

  • Richie RobbDemocratic

    No documented position found.

  • Anne B. CharnockRepublican

    • Sponsored law ending public financing of Supreme Court campaigns.In office
    • Sponsored bill mandating life sentences for murdering minors with firearms.In office

Challengers are listed first and incumbents last; otherwise candidates appear in ballot order. The Gist does not rank, rate or endorse candidates. Only positions backed by a cited source are shown; 6 issues covered in this race.