State Sen. Laura Wakim Chapman has resigned as chairwoman of the Senate Health and Human Resources Committee, citing political pressure as her reason. Her resignation came just as the 2026 legislative session was about to begin.
Chapman, a Republican from Ohio County, made her announcement in a brief letter. She accused Senate President Randy Smith of asking for her support to maintain his leadership, which she felt was inappropriate. “My vote belongs to the people, not special interests,” she stated.
Smith did not address Chapman’s claims but acknowledged her resignation, thanking her for her service. It’s currently unclear who will replace her as chair. Chapman joined the Senate in 2022, representing several counties, including Ohio and Hancock.
Her legal background is in constitutional law, and she has served on multiple committees. Before stepping down, she co-chaired a crucial commission overseeing health and human resources accountability.
In addition to her committee responsibilities, Chapman filed for reelection, expressing her commitment to representing her district effectively. “It’s been an honor to advocate for the Northern Panhandle,” she shared on social media.
In a move to fill the leadership void, Smith appointed state Sen. Brian Helton as the new chair of the Health and Human Resources Committee. Changes in leadership also extended to other key positions within the Senate, creating a wave of new responsibilities for various senators.
This situation sheds light on the political dynamics within West Virginia’s legislature. Leadership changes often reflect broader issues of governance and the balance of power. In fact, a recent survey by the West Virginia Center for Budget and Policy indicated that over 60% of residents feel disconnected from their elected officials, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability in local governance.
The reaction to this news is mixed. Many constituents are curious about how these leadership changes will impact health policy in the state, especially in light of pressing healthcare issues. Social media discussions have highlighted worry over potential shifts in health initiatives that affect underserved communities.
As the new session begins, all eyes are on how these changes will influence the legislative agenda and the welfare of West Virginians. For more insights on local political dynamics, you can check [the West Virginia Secretary of State’s website](https://sos.wv.gov).
Source link
Local News,Chapman resigns as health committee chair
