The law makes him stop. It gives him pause, as they say, because it’s what platforms life as we’re supposed to know it.
The law, too, is for everyone, and with no exclusions, of course, and that’s exactly why Bill Flanigan is running for a seat on the West Virginia Court of Appeals, Division 2. Not only has he played a part in crafting legislation as a member of the state’s House of Delegates, but Flanigan also is an attorney who’s defended the rights of Mountain State residents for a couple of decades.
So now, Flanigan feels he’s ready for the next step, and that’s why he initiated a whole-state tour two weeks ago. He bought a new truck, loaded it with “Flanigan For” signs, and he’s been zig-zagging his way through all the nooks and hollows of the wild and wonderful state.
And sure, such travel allows him to meet and greet folks from each of West Virginia’s 55 counties, but at the same time, he’s learning the differences in the economies and in the cultures.
And this is what he’s learned so far: People want people – real people and not politicians – in all elected positions.
“The folks I’ve met so seem to be surprised that someone running for a position on the (Supreme) Court is out here campaigning,” he said. “But it’s the only kind of campaigning I know because if you want the people’s vote, you have to know the people.”
What have you learned so far about West Virginia while visiting more than 30 counties?
Traveling across more than 32 counties so far has reinforced just how diverse and resilient West Virginia truly is. Each community has its own unique character, but I’ve seen a common thread—people who care deeply about their families, their communities, and being treated fairly.
I’ve heard concerns about jobs, infrastructure, and access to justice, but I’ve also seen a strong sense of pride and independence. What’s stood out most is that no matter where you go, people want to be heard and want a system that works for them instead of some faraway corporate or political interest that has no idea what life here is like.
Should it be a prerequisite for an individual running for a state office to visit every county in West Virginia before they can become an official candidate?
I don’t think it should be a formal prerequisite, but I do believe it’s something every serious candidate should strive to do.
You can’t fully understand the needs of a state as diverse as West Virginia from a distance. Visiting communities, listening to people directly, and seeing the challenges firsthand make you a better, more informed candidate—and ultimately, a better public servant.
What have you been listening to during your drives from event to event?
A mix of things, honestly. I’ll rotate between news, legal podcasts and occasionally my Kindle, but I also like to unwind with music—especially on longer drives. It helps keep me focused but relaxed.
I’m all over the genre spectrum, though, classic rock, sometimes country, reggae, rap, and heavy metal, depending on the mood. Those drives give you a lot of time to think, so having something steady in the background helps.
Favorite band? Favorite song? Favorite movie? Favorite cartoon character?
My favorite band is something I’d probably change depending on the day, but I’ve always appreciated Hank (Williams) Jr., Johnny Cash, and Rage Against the Machine.
Favorite song is tough, but anything with a strong message or story tends to stick with me. That’s why I can always listen to “A Country Boy Can Survive”.
As for movies, I enjoy films that deal with justice and perseverance. “Braveheart” is something I’ve watched over and over again, but overall, my favorite movie is “The Princess Bride”.
A cartoon character is tough; I grew up with two television channels to watch! Mighty Mouse, but I think I liked him because of that voice that came on “Here he comes to save the daaaaaay, Mighty Mouse is on the waaaay”.
Why do you love the law?
I love the law because it’s the foundation of a fair and orderly society. At its best, it ensures that everyone—no matter who they are—has a voice and is treated equally. It’s not just about rules; it’s about justice, accountability, and protecting individual rights.
Being part of that system, and working to uphold those principles, is something I take seriously and find deeply meaningful.
