Republican Senator Jim Justice from West Virginia has agreed to pay approximately $5.2 million in unpaid personal taxes. This marks another chapter in the ongoing financial troubles of a man who was once a billionaire.
This agreement comes after the federal government filed a lawsuit claiming Justice and his wife, Cathy, have neglected to pay income taxes dating back to 2009. The couple’s attorney signed a consent judgment with the Justice Department’s tax division to settle the matter.
Once estimated by Forbes to be worth about $1.9 billion, Justice was stripped of his billionaire status in 2021, with his net worth dropping to around $513 million. Recently, Forbes reported that he may now have a negative net worth, with liabilities outpacing assets.
In a local media briefing, Justice described his financial situation as complex, asserting that his children manage his companies well. He also suggested that the collection efforts against him were politically motivated.
Justice has had a career filled with ups and downs. He served two terms as governor before being elected to the Senate in November, filling the seat left by Democrat Joe Manchin, who transitioned to independent status in 2024.
However, Justice’s financial hurdles aren’t over. The IRS recently filed liens against him and his wife totaling more than $8 million for unpaid personal taxes. State tax officials also filed $1.4 million in liens related to unpaid sales taxes on their historic hotel, The Greenbrier.
A foreclosure auction on several properties owned by Justice was recently stalled due to a dispute with homeowners over unpaid fees. The West Virginia Supreme Court will review this case.
In 2021, the IRS had already placed liens on The Greenbrier Hotel for more than $1.1 million, which were settled later that year. Last year, Justice’s family managed to avert foreclosure by paying off debts that threatened the hotel, which is renowned for hosting high-profile guests, including royalty and U.S. presidents.
Critics, including the state’s Democratic Party, argue these issues stem from Justice’s financial mismanagement. Concerns have been raised about Justice’s delays in making payments for employee health insurance coverage, jeopardizing workers’ benefits.
Justice’s financial history includes the 2009 purchase of The Greenbrier out of bankruptcy for $20.1 million. The resort offers a range of amenities and has a rich history dating back to 1778. It has served as a venue for major events, including a PGA Tour golf tournament and NFL team training camps.
The complexities around Justice’s financial dealings reflect broader concerns about accountability in leadership positions, especially when public trust is at stake.
For further details on the implications of financial accountability in politics, you can read more from CBS News.
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United States Senate, West Virginia, Politics, Taxes, Virginia
