MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Republican Joe Statler, R, Monongalia, 77, was unopposed in the Tuesday election, but watched the race for governor unfold to begin to understand what the legislative session could be like.

On WAJR’s “Talk of the Town,” Statler said first he believes Morrisey will be at the Capitol frequently talking to lawmakers. He expects Morrisey to be a detail oriented leader that will be a fixture during legislative sessions. That perception would be consistent with the way the defended the state in cases involving EPA emissions standards, school choice laws, transgender issues, and successfully suing opioid manufacturers and distributors.

“I guarantee you he’s going to be a hands on governor,” Statler said. ” He is going to be involved with everything out there, but at the same time I think he’s someone you can meet with.”

The legislative team Morrisey will assemble is of great interest to Statler and one he said will set the tone for the working relationship with lawmakers.

“It’s going to be interesting to see who his team is,” Statler said. “That also makes a big difference on who he puts in place, that he surrounds himself and what their working relationship is with the legislature.”

Statler attended a recent event with Morrisey and noted the two share an interest in making education a priority. Statler served on the Monongalia County Board of Education and on the Advisory Board of the Monongalia County Technical Education Center and is currently the Vice Chair of the House Education Committee.

“He really wants bear down and be a governor that is looking at education across the state and I think it’s very important to do that,” Statler said.

Statler also serves on the Committee on Fire Departments and Emergency Medical Services. In that role, Statler has worked to get emergency and temporary funding for volunteer and EMS units across the state. His efforts have included working to secure state funding for paid EMT training and the purchase of training ambulances used across the state for training, certification, recertification at locations across the state.

” We need to find a permanent solution to funding these EMS systems across the state of West Virginia,” Statler said. “We can’t continue to lose these systems and serve the people well.”

Working with Morrisey he believes will be productive on legislative matters. Statler is confident Morrisey will have the ability to incorporate the ideas of others when they make sense for policy that moves the state forward.

“I think you can talk to him about his ideas and your ideas and I think he’s one one that can bend and we’ll find the best solution to the problems out there,” Statler said.

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