MARLINTON — Republican State Senate candidate Jack Reger said tourism, education and workforce development are closely tied together during campaign remarks in Marlinton as he continues his bid for the District 11 seat.
Reger, who is running against incumbent Sen. Bill Hamilton (R-Upshur) and former Sen. Robert Karnes in the Republican Primary, focused his remarks on the importance of supporting families and public schools in communities that rely heavily on tourism.
“No matter where you come from in Pocahontas County, whether you live near Snowshoe, down by Cass, or in one of our small communities, we all want the same things,” Reger said. “We want opportunity. We want stability. And we want a future that our kids can believe in.”
Reger described tourism as a key economic driver in Pocahontas County, citing attractions such as Snowshoe Mountain Resort and Cass Scenic Railroad.
“Tourism doesn’t just bring visitors,” he said. “It brings jobs. It supports small businesses and keeps our local economy moving.”
He said the tourism industry depends on hospitality workers, service employees and other staff who support visitors throughout the region.
“A strong tourism industry doesn’t just happen on its own,” Reger said. “It depends on the people who show up every day to make it work.”
Reger argued that supporting those workers also means supporting their families and ensuring access to quality education for their children.
“A strong workforce depends on a strong education system,” he said. “If the children of our hospitality workers don’t have access to quality schools, if our public schools are struggling or closing, then we’re not just failing them, we’re failing those families.”
He said uncertainty surrounding schools can weaken communities and local economies.
“You can’t build a strong tourism industry in a community where families feel uncertain about their children’s future,” Reger said.
Reger concluded his remarks by calling for unity across the district and emphasizing the connection between strong schools, strong families and economic growth.
“Strong schools support strong families. Strong families support a strong workforce. And a strong workforce supports a thriving industry,” he said.
The Republican Primary for the District 11 Senate seat is scheduled for May 12.