On May 12, 2026, the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals will hold a nonpartisan election for two seats with twelve-year terms. Two justices, Justice Gerald Titus III and Tom Ewing, have terms that are expiring on December 31, 2026. Titus is running to remain on the court and is being challenged by former 23rd Circuit Court Judge Laura Faircloth, Raleigh County Circuit Judge Todd Kirby, Tenth Circuit Court Judge H.L. Kirkpatrick and attorney Martin Sheehan. Justice Ewing is also running for another term and is being challenged by West Virginia House Republican Representative, Bill Flanigan.
Estimated Total TV Spending:
Candidates:
- Estimated spending by H.L. Kirkpatrick: $819,350
- Estimated spending by Gerald Titus: $534,862
- Estimated spending by Tom Ewing: $99,690
- Estimated spending by Bill Flanigan: $153,093
Outside Groups:
- Estimated spending by First Principles PAC: $238,987
- Estimated spending by Almost Heaven Action Fund:
Advertisements (provided by MediaRadar/CMAG)
May 5 – Defend the Rule of Law 15
In this ad, a voiceover says: “Former federal prosecutor Gerald Titus defends the rule of law on West Virginia Supreme Court, reducing crime and combating the drug abuse crisis.”
Sponsor: First Principles PAC
May 1 – Trusted Conservative
In this ad, a voiceover says: “As a Supreme Court justice, Flanigan will serve with integrity, firm, fair and a fresh approach to the courts.”
Sponsor: Almost Heaven Action Fund
April 23 – Uphold the Constitution 15
In this ad, Bill Flanigan says: “I’ll uphold the Constitution, I’ll apply the law as written and I’ll protect your rights.”
Sponsor: Bill Flanigan
April 17 – Trust
In this ad, a voiceover says: “West Virigina families need a state supreme court they can trust – Tom Ewing has spent his career delivering that.”
Sponsor: Tom Ewing
April 8 – Most Experienced Candidate
In this ad, a voiceover says: “Kirkpatrick has a record of tough sentencing – he keeps us safe.”
Sponsor: H.L. Kirkpatrick
