West Virginia teen becomes youngest elected lawmaker MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (WAAY) - A West Virginia University freshman has become the youngest elected lawmaker in the U.S. She did most of her campaigning from her WVU dorm room. 18-year-old Saira Blair will represent a small district in West Virginias eastern panhandle in the state legislature. According to the Associated Press, the fiscally conservative Republican defeated her Democratic opponent 63% to 30%. Following the election, Blairs opponent, attorney Layne Diehl, said, Im very proud of the race that was run on both sides. Quite frankly a 17- or 18-year-old young woman that has put herself out there and won a political campaign has certainly brought some positive press to the state. I look forward to seeing what her leadership brings to the state of West Virginia.” Blair first gained attention in May when she defeated the 66-year-old Republican incumbent. She was only 17 at the time. Blair said she will defer her spring semester to attend the legislative session and make up classes in the summer and fall.
Posted on: Sat, 15 Nov 2014 23:09:58 +0000