Jefferson County, WV Democrats

For Immediate Release RANSON – Jakob Light, of Ranson, was unanimously selected as Jefferson County Democrat of the Year at the Jefferson County Democratic Party’s Executive Committee meeting on July 15th. “Jakob began attending our meetings and events about a year ago,” said Leigh Koonce, Chair of the Democratic Party. “He showed up to an event where he didn’t know anyone, but immediately asked how he could help and pitched right in.” “Since that first meeting, Jakob has been a faithful volunteer and attendee at meetings, rallies, fundraisers, and other events,” added Koonce. Light served a stint as Membership Director for the West Virginia Young Democrats in 2024. Light, who…

   The Jefferson County Democratic Party sends our thoughts and best wishes to former President Donald Trump, his family, the Secret Service agents who were on duty, and all those who attended yesterday’s rally where shots were fired and two are now dead. Those at the rally now join the long list of Americans who have borne witness to gun violence in person. Whether in schools, at places of worship, or in commercial buildings gun violence is a problem we will continue to face as a nation. The incitement and practice of political violence is never right and we condemn it now and always will. The task now is for…

    James Walch, 37, was joined by family and friends on Monday when he officially filed to run for Jefferson CountyCommission from the Charles Town District. “I chose to raise my family in Jefferson County because it’sfull of scenic beauty, rich history, and a great way of life.We have to make sure that way of life is preserved for futuregenerations,” he said to a group of supporters after filing. Walch pointed to better planning to account for the needs of all residents, including farmers, small business owners, and those in need of affordable housing as one of his main goals if elected. He also voiced concern about infrastructure needs…

  The Democrats of Jefferson County hosted a packed house at Fisherman’s Hall for their annual Christmas and Holiday Party, welcoming over 40 people and hosting a baked goods auction which raised over $250 for Meals on Wheels. Members of the Jefferson County Democratic Executive Committee, Democratic Association, and Organization of Democratic Women joined together and heard from prospective candidates for 2024. Joining the group were Zach Shrewsberry of Fayette County (candidate for United States Senate), Steven Wendelin of Hardy County (candidate for United States House), and Lucia Valentine (candidate for WV House, District 97).  Also appearing were non-partisan judicial candidates Magistrate Arthena Roper and Circuit Judge Bridget Cohee, both…

JEFFERSON COUNTY – In honor of the Thanksgiving season, the Democrats of Jefferson County organized several efforts to give a hand up to those in need. The Democratic Executive Committee collected donations of canned green beans to be included in the Thanksgiving meal kits given out by Shepherdstown Shares to clients served by their food pantry. Nearly 100 cans were donated. The Democratic Association opted to assist the Blue Ridge Mountain Food Bank and donated sufficient funds to purchase canned hams for every family served. A state of emergency was declared for the West Side of Charleston (Kanawha County) and over a thousand residents were left without gas, heat, and…

The Jefferson County Democratic Executive  Committee has stepped forward to assist the  Shepherdstown Shares Food Pantry with their Thanksgiving meal program by collecting and donating canned green beans. The Shepherdstown Shares Food Pantry will be providing 88 families with provisions to prepare a traditional Thanksgiving meal. Those wishing to donate canned green beans should purchase standard size cans (14.5 oz) with pop-top lids and contact Leigh Koonce, Chair, to arrange for pick-up or drop-off. Alternatively, individuals can make a financial donation through the below link. 100% of the proceeds will be used solely for this effort. Any residual funds after the required quantity has been purchased will be donated to…

Leaders from the Jefferson County Democrats continued their tradition of participation in the Shepherdstown Trick or Treat festivities. Volunteers, including Lucia Valentine, an announced candidate for the WV House of Delegates, handed out candy for approximately two hours to nearly 2,000 children, teenagers, and even a few adults!

Commissioners Tricia Jackson and Jennifer Krouse each receive a $45,000 a year salary. They are welcome to draw insurance benefits in addition to their salaries. The Jefferson County Commission typically meets every other week. Seems like a pretty good gig, right? A livable wage and insurance for a couple meetings a month. Yet, Commissioners Jackson and Krouse have chosen to not report to work for the last five meetings. Refusing to show up for work is typically a fireable offense for everyday workers, but apparently not for County Commissioners. Thanks to Commissioners Jackson and Krouse, Jefferson County cannot: provide representation for the citizens of the Charles Town District by appointing…

Members of the Jefferson County Democratic Executive Committee and supporters tabled at the annual Middleway Day Festival last week. We handed out stretchy skeletons and flags, and enjoyed speaking with voters from not only Middleway, but across the County. Thanks to Antoinette, Lanae, Robyn, Jan, Jakob, Storme, and John for lending a hand on a chilly and damp day!

Jefferson Co. Democrats Select Lanae Johnson as Democrat of the Year October 22, 2023