News + Press
News + Press
News + Press
Statement from the West Virginia Democratic Party
On Constitution Day, We Stand with Delegate Anitra Hamilton and Mayor Daniel Dudley
On Constitution Day, We Stand with Delegate Anitra Hamilton and Mayor Daniel Dudley
Morgantown Delegate Anitra Hamilton and Wellsburg Mayor Daniel Dudley have been viciously attacked in recent days because they spoke out against racism, violent political rhetoric and political violence in the aftermath of the death of Charlie Kirk. Certain Republicans have twisted their words and are now calling for their removal from office.
The irony could not be more stark. These same Republicans never miss a chance to give lip service to the idea of free speech and democratic principles — but apparently only when that speech aligns with their far-right views. When leaders in our communities exercise their constitutional right to speak freely, they are smeared, targeted, and threatened with political exile.
Let’s remember Charlie Kirk’s own words: “… the right to speak freely is the birthright of all Americans.” If that is true — and we believe it is — then Delegate Hamilton and Mayor Dudley are being attacked for exercising that very birthright.
Today is Constitution Day, the anniversary of the signing of the document that created our democracy. The best way to honor the Constitution is not to silence those who speak uncomfortable truths, but to uphold the principles of democracy and freedom. What Republicans are doing today dishonors that legacy.
The West Virginia Democratic Party stands proudly with Delegate Anitra Hamilton and Mayor Daniel Dudley. They were duly elected by their communities. Any attempt to remove them for their speech is not only undemocratic — it is un-American.