CHARLESTON — A West Virginia lawmaker has introduced legislation that would require all city council and mayoral elections to be partisan and prevent mayors from being appointed except in the case of vacancies.
Willis
House Bill 4080, filed by Del. Jimmy Willis, R-Brooke, would amend the state code to ensure that, beginning July 1, 2032, municipal elections for mayors and city council members are conducted as partisan contests. Currently, West Virginia allows some municipalities to hold nonpartisan elections and, in certain circumstances, appoint mayors rather than elect them. Under the bill, any city, town, or village whose charter conflicts with the new requirements would be required to amend the charter to comply.
Supporters of the bill say it would provide greater transparency for voters by clearly identifying candidates’ political party affiliations and ensuring that mayors are chosen through popular vote rather than appointment.
The legislation also aligns municipal election dates with regularly scheduled statewide primary or general elections, a move proponents say could boost voter participation and reduce administrative costs for municipalities. By synchronizing local elections with state elections, the bill aims to simplify the voting process and encourage higher turnout for city races that might otherwise draw few voters.
If passed, the bill would mark a significant change in how local governments operate in West Virginia, standardizing the election process for municipal officials across the state. HB 4080 was formally introduced on January 14 and referred to the House Judiciary Committee for consideration during the 2026 regular legislative session.