Associated Press Published

Gingrich to Fundraise for GOP Governor Hopeful

Newt Ginrich

Newt Gingrich is heading to West Virginia to boost the gubernatorial campaign of Republican Bill Cole.

The Cole campaign says Gingrich, the former U.S. House speaker and presidential candidate, will be in Martinsburg for a Thursday evening fundraiser.

Gingrich’s appearance adds to the list of high-profile Republicans coming to West Virginia for Cole.

Indiana Gov. Mike Pence came to Charleston before being named Donald Trump’s vice presidential nominee. Texas Gov. Rick Perry also was in Charleston for a Cole fundraiser. Former Florida Gov. and presidential candidate Jeb Bush came to Morgantown to help Cole raise money.

Cole introduced Trump during the presidential nominee’s rally in Charleston in May.

Cole, the state Senate president, faces Democratic billionaire businessman Jim Justice in November.

Justice has distanced himself from national Democratic politics.