GLEN DALE — What West Virginia needs is economic development, and that won’t happen without addressing a host of other issues, according to local attorney Bob Dobkin, a Republican candidate for West Virginia Senate.

“I am ready. I am prepared. I am experienced. I’m a common-sense conservative. I am ready to deliver common-sense leadership for the state,” he said.

Dobkin faces Toby Heaney in the GOP primary for the District 2 seat, which begins in Marshall County and extends to the Cheat Lake area in Monongalia County. Chris Claypool is the only candidate on the Democratic ticket.

Dobkin said that for too long, the state’s youth have been leaving West Virginia due to failed policies in Charleston that have created “economic uncertainty” in struggling communities. Dobkin blamed the Legislature for slowing job growth.

“I am pragmatic. I am a solutions-oriented person, and I can bring people together,” he said. “I believe it’s time for a West Virginia that works for everybody.”

Dobkin is an attorney with Spillman, Thomas and Battle in Wheeling. His work focuses on corporate and business law, real estate and mineral transactions.

“I have significant experience in energy and land development. Because of that, I have a significant understanding of the oil and gas industry,” he said.

He and his wife, Amy, have been married for 26 years and live in Glen Dale.

In his travels, Dobkin said he has observed two distinct economies in the state.

“It is multi-cultured from Benwood to Cheat Lake and everything in between,” he said. “It is important the 2nd District has somebody in the Legislature who understands this side of the district.

“Obviously, we have distinct economies. We’re (in Marshall County) more focused on our natural resources, with the river valley being industrial. In Monongalia County, the economy is based on health care and higher education. It’s important we have a representative in District 2 who understands both economies well.”

According to Dobkin, the most important issue facing West Virginia is economic development. However, he said progress will require rebuilding aging infrastructure, providing affordable access to health care, increasing student success rates and addressing generational poverty.

He added that addressing addiction and mental health issues is also part of the equation.

“We can’t improve in one of these areas without improving in all the other areas,” he said.

Job creators won’t locate to the state without good roads and a strong, healthy and educated workforce, he said.

“Strong public schools are the foundation of economic opportunities,” he said. “It is imperative we attract and incentivize teachers.”

Dobkin supports increased government funding for public education, but he described funding for the Hope Scholarship voucher as “a controversial issue.”

“Strong public schools are the foundation of economic opportunity, but parents should have accountable options when public schools are not meeting students’ needs,” he said.

“I support the Hope Scholarship, but it must be paired with full funding for public education.”

He said his ability to lead and achieve compromise sets him apart from other candidates.

“Our state needs leaders who listen, not divide,” he said. “We are strongest when we treat each other with respect. The citizens of West Virginia agree that we must restore civility and get back to governing with common sense and courage.

“The Republicans in the House can’t seem to work together to solve problems for everyday West Virginia. It’s hard to understand why our leaders can’t work together to provide answers to these complex issues,” Dobkin added.