State Sen. Charles Clements, R-Wetzel, announced Thursday he would not seek re-election.

West Virgnia Sen. Charles Clements, R-Wetzel, released the following statement Thursday afternoon, announcing that he would not seek re-election and endorsing new candidate Bob Dobkin to fill the seat.

“It has been one of the biggest honors of my life to serve the people of West Virginia in the State Senate. As a Delegate years ago and as a Senator for the last several years, I have worked hard for the people of my home Wetzel County and our surrounding area. I am proud of the work we have done to improve our state’s economy, begin to fix our infrastructure, and improve our schools. While a lot has been accomplished, there is still a lot to do.

I am announcing today that while I will be serving out the remainder of my term, I have decided against running for re-election. As many of you know, I have had several health challenges over the years. I feel fine today, but I want to be able to spend more time with my family with the remaining time God blesses me with here on this earth.

I would like to thank my family for supporting me over the years, especially my wife and children. I have made so many good friends throughout the district and in Charleston. West Virginia is a beautiful place, but her people are what truly shine the most.

Even though my name will not be on the ballot, the next few years are very important for the direction of our state. 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.

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.

Thanks again to everyone who has been part of this journey with me. I know that West Virginia’s best years are ahead of us.”