Republican Tom Willis of Berkeley County named Chair of Senate Judiciary
By Matthew Young, RealWV
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Republican State Senator Tom Willis of Berkeley County, on Tuesday, was named chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, by Senate President and Lt. Gov. Randy Smith, R-Preston. Willis, who had previously served as Vice-chair of the committee, succeeds former Chair Mike Stuart, who resigned from the State Senate in October after being confirmed as general counsel for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Willis, a practicing attorney and member of the West Virginia National Guard, defeated former Senate President Craig Blair in the 2024 Republican Primary to win his seat. Willis’ victory over Blair paved the way for Smith’s ascension to the position of senate president and lieutenant governor.
While having served, thus far, for only one 60-day session in the state’s legislature, Willis is no stranger to politics. In 2018, Willis unsuccessfully challenged then-Attorney General Patrick Morrisey for the Republican nomination for United States Senate. And shortly after the conclusion of West Virginia’s 2025 Legislative Session, Willis announced his intention to challenge Shelley Moore Capito in next year’s Republican Primary, in another bid for the United States Senate.
Shortly after the announcement of Willis’ appointment, through a press release, Smith said, “Judiciary is one of our busiest and most important committees, and I knew that I needed a strong, reliable leader to fill that role.”
“His extensive knowledge and background made him a natural fit,” Smith added in his statement. “I am honored that he was willing to step up and take on this challenge, and I am confident he’s dedicated to making the lives of West Virginians and their families better.”
Despite early voting in next year’s primary beginning a mere five weeks after the conclusion of the legislative session, Willis has seemingly indicated his intention to postpone his campaign efforts until after his commitments as judiciary chair have been satisfied.
In a Tuesday social media post, Willis said, “Although I am a declared candidate for the U.S. Senate in 2026 because I believe it is time for a new direction and fresh leadership, I want to assure the people of West Virginia that I will give my full dedication and energy to my responsibilities as Judiciary Chair.”
The 2026 Legislative Session begins on Jan. 14.
