Who Is Running for Senate in West Virginia in 2026?
Last updated: March 4, 2026
Shelley Capito
(Incumbent)Economy
HighShelley Capito advocates for a low-tax, pro-growth economic policy to encourage small business employment and expansion, viewing small businesses as creators of American jobs. She co-sponsored the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, which included Opportunity Zones, believing these measures spur growth. She also seeks increased job creation and energy exploration, stating that more energy is needed to grow the country, and applauded the repeal of the Biden-era Mercury and Air Toxics Standards rule.
Immigration
HighSenator Shelley Capito strongly supports fully funding the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), stating that these agencies are critical for public safety and national security. She agrees with some ICE reforms, such as body cameras and de-escalation training, but opposes proposals to prohibit agents from wearing masks due to safety concerns for law enforcement. Capito believes efforts to weaken DHS and ICE enforcement authority undermine the rule of law and focuses on removing violent criminals. She considers some Democratic reform proposals to be a "wish list" that could stall essential funding.
Healthcare
HighShelley Capito advocates for affordable, quality healthcare, supporting expanded health savings accounts for individual control and transparency, and reducing regulations to lower costs. As Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, she helps fund medical research and facilities. She introduced the bipartisan Improving Transparency and Accuracy in Medicare Part D Drug Spending Act to lower prescription drug prices and voted for the Health Care Freedom for Patients Act, which she states directly lowers costs for families.
Democratic Candidate
No Democratic candidate has been confirmed for this race yet. Check back after the primary.
| Issue | Shelley Capito |
|---|---|
| Economy | Shelley Capito advocates for a low-tax, pro-growth economic policy to encourage small business employment and expansion, viewing small businesses as creators of American jobs. She co-sponsored the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, which included Opportunity Zones, believing these measures spur growth. She also seeks increased job creation and energy exploration, stating that more energy is needed to grow the country, and applauded the repeal of the Biden-era Mercury and Air Toxics Standards rule. High |
| Immigration | Senator Shelley Capito strongly supports fully funding the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), stating that these agencies are critical for public safety and national security. She agrees with some ICE reforms, such as body cameras and de-escalation training, but opposes proposals to prohibit agents from wearing masks due to safety concerns for law enforcement. Capito believes efforts to weaken DHS and ICE enforcement authority undermine the rule of law and focuses on removing violent criminals. She considers some Democratic reform proposals to be a "wish list" that could stall essential funding. High |
| Healthcare | Shelley Capito advocates for affordable, quality healthcare, supporting expanded health savings accounts for individual control and transparency, and reducing regulations to lower costs. As Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, she helps fund medical research and facilities. She introduced the bipartisan Improving Transparency and Accuracy in Medicare Part D Drug Spending Act to lower prescription drug prices and voted for the Health Care Freedom for Patients Act, which she states directly lowers costs for families. High |
| Climate & Energy | Shelley Capito has applauded the Trump EPA's repeal of greenhouse gas vehicle standards, citing economic hardship and the need for affordable, gas-powered vehicles, job creation, and consumer choice. She also commended the repeal of Biden-era coal regulations, stating these regulations negatively impacted American families and workers by undermining affordable, reliable electricity from coal. Capito supports deregulation and increased energy exploration for economic growth. High |
| Abortion & Reproductive Rights | Senator Shelley Capito opposes federal abortion rights, voting against legislation she stated would override state restrictions and enable federal funding for abortion. She also voted in favor of the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act. Capito cites a commitment to protecting the sanctity of life and preventing taxpayer funding of abortion, earning an "A" from SBA Pro-Life America and a 30% rating from NARAL. High |
| Foreign Policy | Senator Shelley Capito voted in favor of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026. She stated her support was based on the bill's ability to enhance national security, provide a pay raise for service members, and strengthen the military to address future challenges. Capito also emphasized that the legislation included provisions she advocated for to benefit West Virginia. High |
| Education | As Chair of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies, Shelley Capito supports increased funding for education programs. She has advocated for the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bill, which aims to address educator shortages, ensure education programs are housed within the Department of Education, and support student basic needs in higher education. Medium |
| Gun Policy | Shelley Capito supported the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which funds mental health services, school safety, and background check systems, while affirming it does not infringe on Second Amendment rights or include federal red flag laws. She also voted to improve the National Instant Background Check System and supported delaying firearm purchases by individuals under terrorist investigation, citing the need to prevent terrorists from acquiring guns while protecting constitutional rights. High |
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