CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WVDN) – The Democratic Party extends its deepest condolences to the families and communities impacted by the devastating flooding this weekend, particularly in Marion and Ohio counties, where lives were tragically lost and homes and infrastructure were severely damaged.
“Our hearts go out to the families mourning loved ones and for the communities that are now beginning the difficult process of recovery,” said Party Chair Mike Pushkin. “We offer our prayers, our support, and our commitment to fight for the resources we need to stay safe from future disasters.”
As West Virginians continue to grapple with the aftermath, the party is calling on Governor Patrick Morrisey and the Republican-led legislature to fund the West Virginia Flood Resiliency Trust Fund—a critical reserve designed to help mitigate future flood risks, improve stormwater infrastructure, and better prepare vulnerable communities for the next storm.
During the 2025 Legislative Session, House Minority Leader Delegate Sean Hornbuckle (D-Cabell) introduced an amendment to the Budget Bill (HB 2026) to provide dedicated funding to the Trust Fund. The amendment was blocked by the Republican super majority.
“In West Virginia, it’s not a matter of if we’ll see flooding—it’s when and where,” said Delegate Hornbuckle. “We have the data, we have the plans, and we have a fund already on the books. What we don’t have is the political will from Republican leadership to invest in our people’s safety. My amendment would have put real money not only toward responding to flood disasters just like the one we experienced this weekend but more importantly preventative and preparedness measures.”
Party representatives said, “The need for state-level preparedness is even more urgent in light of President Trump’s ongoing efforts to gut or eliminate FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency. With federal support at risk, the burden of flood readiness will fall even more heavily on the state and its communities.”
“This is a moment for leadership—not excuses,” said Pushkin. “West Virginians deserve a government that prepares for the next flood instead of pointing fingers after it’s too late.”
