CHARLESTON — Americans for Prosperity-West Virginia has released its scorecard this week, detailing which West Virginia legislators vote in line with the organization's policies.
Each legislator receives a scorecard regardless of party affiliation. AFP-WV says it believes in a free society at the local, state and federal level and wants a free market for all Americans.
Jason Huffman, AFP-WV's state director, said the organization looks forward to continuing its efforts in thanking West Virginia lawmakers that championed transparency, fiscal restraint and consistently stood up for taxpayers during the legislative session.
"We’ll use every tool at our disposal to educate citizens about the real-life impact of the principled policies these legislators are championing," Huffman said in a statement provided to The West Virginia Record. "Holding legislators accountable to West Virginians has resulted in a balanced budget without tax hikes and more transparency coming out of Charleston. We look forward to our efforts, over the next few weeks, to thank key legislators through our grassroots team, as well as this robust digital and direct-mail campaign."
AFP-WV's efforts are focused on lawmakers of all parties and is launching a digital and direct-mail effort based off the third-annual Legislative Scorecard, which was released Aug. 13.
AFP-WV recognizes lawmakers who voted alongside its policy priorities through certificates of appreciation.
The certificates distinguish legislators who secured a balanced budget without raising taxes on West Virginian families, among other issues. Huffman said the organization fully intends to hold legislators accountable.
"Our goal is to enhance transparency, help the average West Virginian make their voice heard and continue to build upon the culture of fiscal responsibility that we’ve worked to create in Charleston," Huffman said in a news release. "Our activists enjoy applauding lawmakers who stand up for taxpayers by refusing to put politics over what’s best for all West Virginians — because at the end of the day that means we’re one step closer to a freer and more prosperous Mountain State."
Several West Virginia legislators voted in line with AFP-WV's policies a majority of the time. For example, Sen. Richard Ojeda voted alongside AFP-WV on five of seven issues. Sen. Ron Stollings also voted alongside AFP-WV on five of seven issues. Senate President Mitch Carmichael voted in line with AFP-WV on all seven issues.
The scorecard can be found at wvscorecard.com.