Josh Gary
Political party: Democrat
Age: 41
Residence: McMechen
Family: Wife and two daughters.
Education: B.A., social science education, West Liberty University; M.A, special education, West Virginia University.
Professional experience: 20 years.
Political and civic experience: No political experience, president of American Federation of Teachers Local 6566 since 2010.
Why did you decide to seek office?
We need a senator who shows up for the full legislative session and listens to the concerns of all his constituents.
What is the most important issue you believe your office will face next year, and how will you address it?
We need plans in place as soon as possible to fix the crumbling roads as well as outdated water and sewage lines. This will allow our citizens to be able to get from home to work without worrying about damaging their car and to drink the water in their home without fearing it is going to make them sick.
Mike Maroney
Political party: Republican
Age: 52
Residence: Glen Dale
Family: Two children, Matthew and Megan.
Education: B.A. chemistry, West Virginia University, 1986-90; M.D., Marshall University School of Medicine, 1990-94; diagnostic radiology residency, University of Maryland Medical System, 1994-98; neuroradiology fellowship, University of Maryland Medical System, 1998-99.
Professional experience: Physician radiologist, 1999-present, working for Associated Radiologists of Charleston and Radiology Associates of Wheeling.
Political and civic experience: State Senator District 2, 2017-present; chairman Senate Economic Development Committee, 2017-18; chairman Senate Health and Human Resources Committee, 2019-present; chairman Interim Legislative Oversight Committee on Health and Human Resources, Senate Finance Committee 2017-present; Senate Government Organization Committee, 2017-present; Senate Rules Committee, 2019-present; Governor’s Council on Substance Abuse and Treatment.
Why did you decide to seek office?
Four years ago I decided to run for the senate because I wanted to “give back” and make a difference in West Virginia. I am seeking re-election because I realized it is possible to make a difference and I am proud of the path we had West Virginia on. There is more work to do.
What is the most important issue you believe your office will face in the next year, and how will you address it?
The current pandemic. I have already drafted a pandemic bill that deals with all aspects of the current pandemic and future pandemics. This bill addresses everything from reporting, testing, medications and vaccines, medical equipment stockpiles and inventory. It also defines the powers of DHHR, Bureau of Public Health, DMAPS, West Virginia National Guard, the Legislature and the governor. The bill addresses the delicate balance of minimizing spread of disease vs. hurting West Virginians with school closures, business shutdown and social isolation.
