CHARLESTON, WV – West Virginia Democratic leaders chastised Governor Patrick Morrisey today for failing to appoint a qualified Commissioner for the Bureau of Public Health and for failing to ensure that key cabinet secretaries actively participated in critical legislative discussions.
Despite the fact that he lacks medical credentials and a public health degree, Justin Davis is currently the Interim Commissioner of the Bureau for Public Health. Davis, who studied political science, previously worked for Barry Dunn, a tax consulting firm.
“Governor Morrisey’s refusal to appoint a qualified Commissioner is not just negligent—it’s irresponsible and dangerous,” said West Virginia Democratic Party Chair Mike Pushkin.
“West Virginians are paying the price for his political maneuvering. We’re facing some of the worst health outcomes in America, but our Bureau of Public Health is led by a political appointee with no public health experience.”
Democrats claim Governor Morrisey is intentionally delaying the appointment in order to pass controversial legislation aimed at repealing West Virginia’s effective childhood immunization laws.
Delegate Anitra Hamilton, Minority Vice Chair of the House Health Committee, expressed concern, saying, “It’s clear Governor Morrisey understands that no credible doctor or public health professional would testify in support of weakening immunization protections.”
Putting Justin Davis in this position is analogous to a dentist recommending sugary soda rather than toothpaste. It’s absurd, and it jeopardizes the health of our children and communities.”
To add to the concerns, Secretary of Health Arvin Singh and Secretary of Human Services Alex J. Mayer have been noticeably absent from legislative hearings. Singh’s limited appearances have primarily focused on lobbying for Certificate of Need policies, reflecting his previous role as a Maryland hospital executive.
Secretary Mayer, meanwhile, appears preoccupied with his recent move from South Dakota, ignoring his duties during a critical legislative session.
“West Virginia is number one in preventable deaths and near the top in health insurance premiums,” Mr. Pushkin said. “We cannot afford a public health system that lacks leadership. We cannot afford absent cabinet secretaries during a health crisis. West Virginians deserve leaders who show up and prioritize their well-being.
West Virginia Democrats urge Governor Morrissey to appoint qualified leadership for the Bureau of Public Health and to engage his cabinet in addressing West Virginia’s ongoing health crisis.
For more information, call Mike Pushkin at 304-989-6856.
