Associated Press Published

High-noon Debate Broils West Virginia Attorney General Race

Morrisey, Reynolds

The West Virginia attorney general’s race has reached a boiling point in an impromptu, one-on-one debate at high noon on the state Capitol steps.

Republican Attorney General Patrick Morrisey offered the debate challenge Tuesday, specifically telling Democrat Doug Reynolds to be there at high noon Wednesday. Reynolds arrived without forewarning.

Morrisey called Reynolds deceitful, a liar and a liberal who donated to Hillary Clinton’s campaign in 2007. Reynolds fired back that Morrisey is swayed by the pharmaceutical industry that has employed his wife as a lobbyist.

Both denied the attacks and threw counterpunches for a half-hour in the sun while supporters cheered and jeered.

Reynolds has put $1.8 million of his wealth into the race through late September.

Morrisey is boosted by $4 million in spending from the Republican Attorneys General Association.