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West Virginia National Guard Veteran Announces Bid for State Senate District 2
CHARLESTON – Toby Heaney, an alumnus of West Virginia University pursuing his doctorate in economics and a veteran of the West Virginia National Guard, has officially declared his candidacy for the West Virginia State Senate. Heaney, a Republican, is challenging the incumbent, State Sen.Charles Clements (R-Wetzel), for the district 2 seat.
Heaney, a resident of Fairview, stated his decision to enter politics was inspired by the approach of President Donald Trump.”Look at what has happened in seven short months with Donald Trump as president,” Heaney remarked in a press release. “He has proven that where there is a will, there is a way. Furthermore, we don’t get better service with career politicians. Outsiders get it done. That’s why today I am officially announcing my candidacy for the state Senate.”
A retired sergeant, Heaney dedicated 24 years to the West virginia national Guard, including 20 years of active duty and service during Operation Iraqi Freedom.His academic background includes a bachelor’s degree in finance from fairmont State University, a master’s in business governance from the University of Charleston, and a master’s in economics from WVU.He is currently working towards his doctorate in economics at WVU, with a research focus on unemployment, the housing market, and veterans’ affairs.
“As an economist and veteran, I possess the background and skill set to drive positive change within our state and district,” Heaney asserted. “I am confident I can contribute to revitalizing our economy by fostering well-paying jobs while simultaneously streamlining state government operations.”
Heaney’s platform aligns with many core Republican principles. Key issues he intends to champion include implementing term limits for legislators, safeguarding Second Amendment rights, reducing the tax burden, curbing government waste and fraud, stimulating job growth, advocating for pro-life policies, increasing penalties for drug traffickers, and addressing what he describes as the “radicalization” occurring within public schools and higher education institutions.
“With two master’s degrees, I deeply value education,” Heaney emphasized. “This is precisely why it is imperative to halt the radicalization in our schools and empower parents. As your next Senator, I will vigorously defend our shared conservative values.”
Heaney will compete against Clements, a New Martinsville resident who first joined the state Senate in 2016 via appointment. Clements has since been elected to two full four-year terms, in 2018 and 2022. A U.S. Army veteran, businessman, and former executive director of the Route 2/Interstate 68 Authority, Clements also previously served in the House of Delegates during the 1990s.He currently holds the position of vice chairman of the Senate Education Commitee.
Heaney submitted his pre-candidacy paperwork to the west Virginia Secretary of State’s Office on May 31st, enabling him to solicit campaign contributions before the official candidate filing period, which runs from January 12th to January 31st, 2026. His latest campaign finance report indicates year-to-date contributions of $1,188, with $792 in cash on hand. In contrast, Clements raised over $78,000 during his 2022 re-election campaign.