Senator Charles Clements (R-Wetzel) took the oath of office alongside his wife Eugenia “Genie” Clements this morning in a ceremony in the Senate Chamber. Surrounded by friends and supporters, Senator Clements was administered the oath by Senate President Mitch Carmichael.
Governor Justice appointed Clements to fill the 2nd district seat vacated by Agriculture Commissioner Kent Leonhardt. The district covers all of Wetzel County, Tyler County, Doddridge County, Ritchie County and Calhoun County, and parts of Marshall County, Marion County and Gilmer County.
Justice cited Clement’s experience with infrastructure as one of his biggest strengths. Clements said he is looking forward to finding ways to “take advantage” of increased federal funding for infratsructure to improve the roads and bridges of the state.
Clements formerly served as a member of the West Virginia House of Delegates from 1994 to 1996. He said he has always had an interest in running for the Senate, however. He ran an unsuccessful campaign for the Senate in 1998.
Clements resides in New Martinsville of Wetzel County where he works as an office manager for H&R Block. Prior to working for H&R Block, he owned Clements Oil Company for 34 years.
The Regular Session will begin Feb. 8, 2017.
