According to the latest MetroNews West Virginia Poll, Republicans Jim Justice and Patrick Morrisey are leading their respective races significantly. The poll, conducted between August 21-27, shows Justice, the incumbent Republican governor, leading Democrat Glenn Elliott, the mayor of Wheeling, by a substantial margin of 62% to 28% in the U.S. Senate race. Justice, a two-term governor, is highly popular in the state, with a job approval rating at a record high of 65%.

In the gubernatorial race, Republican Patrick Morrisey, currently the state’s attorney general, is ahead of Democrat Steve Williams, the mayor of Huntington, with a 49% to 35% lead. Morrisey’s support is strong, though his favorability ratings are more divided compared to Justice. Morrisey’s campaign benefits from a significant financial edge, with over a million dollars in campaign funds, compared to Williams’ approximately $53,000.

The poll highlights that both Elliott and Williams are relatively unknown statewide, which could pose a challenge for them as the election approaches. The results reflect West Virginia’s growing Republican dominance, with Trump also showing a commanding lead over Vice President Kamala Harris in the presidential race, holding 61% of support compared to Harris’ 34%.

Among other political figures, Trump remains highly favored, with 60% of West Virginians viewing him positively. In contrast, Harris has a lower favorability rating at 35%. Senator Joe Manchin, who recently announced he will not seek re-election and switched to independent status, has seen a notable increase in approval, now at 52%.

The poll was presented at the West Virginia Chamber of Commerce’s annual business summit and included responses from 400 registered voters, with a confidence level of +/- 4.9 percentage points.