Capito Wins West Virginia GOP Senate Primary with Trump Backing

Republican Sen. Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia moved a big step closer to re-election after defeating five challengers in Tuesday's GOP Senate primary.

The Associated Press reported Capito's victory, which secures her party's nomination in the solidly Republican Mountain State. The two-term senator first won election in 2014 after serving 15 years in the House. She made history as West Virginia's first female senator and comes from a political family. Her late father, Arch Moore Jr., was a three-term governor and six-term congressman.

State Sen. Tom Willis was among those who challenged her. He called for change and criticized career politicians.

Capito highlighted her support from President Donald Trump during the campaign. "I’m honored to have President Trump’s complete and total endorsement as we fight to protect West Virginia jobs, make life more affordable, secure our border, and defend our shared values in the Mountain State," she wrote last month.

On Tuesday, she posted on social media: "Proud to lead President Trump’s ticket in West Virginia today."

West Virginia has shifted from Democratic dominance to deep red territory. Trump won the state by more than 40 points in his 2024 presidential victory.

Capito is now the heavy favorite for the November midterm election. Top nonpartisan handicappers rate the race as solidly Republican. The GOP holds a 53-47 Senate majority.

Five Democrats are seeking their party's Senate nomination.