GLEN DALE, W.Va. – Voters in West Virginia Senate District 2, which includes parts of Marshall, Marion and Monongalia counties and all of Wetzel, Tyler and Doddridge counties, will see a contested Republican primary for West Virginia Senate.
The candidate filing period officially ended on Jan. 31.
Robert Dobkin of Marshall County filed his paperwork with the West Virginia Secretary of State’s Office to run for District 2 in 2026. The seat is currently held by Senator Charles Clements (Wetzel-R), and he has declared his endorsement for Dobkin’s campaign.
Clements announced in November that he would not seek reelection.
“Even though my name will not be on the ballot, the next few years are very important for the direction of our state,” said Clements. “It has been difficult to watch the State Senate move in a different direction recently, after having made so much progress over the last decade.”
Clements continued, “For voters who want to see our state regain its focus on creating jobs, rebuilding our infrastructure, and improving education, I encourage them to support Bob Dobkin for State Senate. Mr. Dobkin has my full endorsement for State Senate for the upcoming 2026 Republican primary election.”
Dobkin is an attorney and community leader who has built his career on helping families, small businesses, and local organizations navigate complex legal and financial matters. He practices law at Spilman Thomas & Battle in their Wheeling office.
“West Virginia needs proven leaders who are focused on growing our economy, rebuilding our state’s infrastructure, and improving education for all of our students,” said Dobkin. “I plan to continue the work of Senator Clements and be that leader for the Second District.”
Toby Heaney of Marion County also filed his paperwork with the West Virginia Secretary of State’s Office to run for District 2 in 2026. Heaney ran in the 2024 Republican primary for the West Virginia House of Delegates and was defeated by Jon Dodds of Marion County.
