West Virginians understand that more than anything else, their representatives in Washington, D.C., must know them and make what is best for them their highest priority. U.S. Rep. David McKinley has proven time and again he is willing to do just that.

An example of McKinley’s willingness to learn what is needed for a better West Virginia took place just this past Tuesday, when he gathered mayors from across his district for a discussion on their concerns, and how and where he can help.

As a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, the Subcommittee on Environment and the Subcommittee on Energy, McKinley weighs in on matters of the utmost importance to Mountain State residents — particularly here in the energy-rich 2nd Congressional District. He serves as a principled voice in our nation’s evolving conversation about energy and the economy. McKinley is a strong force for common sense when it comes to taking care of not only our environment, but also the people living in it. He knows it is essential we do not go headlong into attention-grabbing policies; but rather he is determined to find a logical approach to an energy transition in which research develops affordable technology to use the fuels we have, while working toward an all-of-the-above energy mix for the future.

McKinley has been named one of the most bipartisan members of Congress, meaning he understands it is more important to reach an effective compromise than to adhere only to a party line — no matter who is hurt. He is true to his roots as a fiscally responsible, small-government conservative; and he upholds his mission to serve the people of West Virginia by working with those across the aisle to get the job done.

His vote to approve a true infrastructure bill will mean good things for our communities — and it helped derail President Joe Biden’s bloated and irrational, partisan Reconciliation Bill, which was modestly estimated to cost two- to three-times as much. Because of McKinley’s determination to do the right thing for Mountain State residents, billions of dollars are coming our way to fund roads, bridges, broadband internet, and upgraded water and sewer systems.

McKinley is a lifelong Wheeling resident. He’s a West Virginian who is deeply invested in seeing this state prosper. His family is here, his life’s work before becoming a public servant in 2011 is being carried on by his son here, and he cares deeply about ensuring a bright future for our state and its people.

Rep. Alex Mooney is McKinley’s primary opponent on May 10. There is no doubt Mooney has an exciting future ahead of him serving as a public official. But McKinley has proved to West Virginians he is dedicated to serving them; and has all the tools — and desire to use them well — to be our most effective advocate in the nation’s capital.

David McKinley has earned his reputation as a trustworthy, resolute representative of West Virginians. And he has earned our vote for the chance to continue that work in Washington on behalf of the entire 2nd Congressional District.

The choice May 10 is clear. We endorse David McKinley in the Republican primary for the U.S. House of Representatives.