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(June 6, 2008) “Mr. Garrison’s decision to step aside is an important step in correcting the flaws in our government and our typical process of filling important positions within our state. But it is only the first step. Mr. Garrison’s presidency and the resulting scandal involving an unearned diploma being awarded to the daughter of the Governor of West Virginia are only symptoms of a much larger issue.

“We must not pretend that Mr. Garrison’s resignation is the conclusion of this chapter in our history. Instead, this episode has afforded us a unique opportunity to focus the public’s attention on the cronyism and corruption prevalent in far too many institutions and organizations that affect West Virginians every day. I challenge all members of the State Legislature to join with those colleagues who have called for an investigation into this scandal. Only by demanding accountability and honesty from the highest levels of state government can we begin the process of restoring integrity to government, and regaining the trust of our citizens.” -- Russ Weeks

Weeks issues statement
on Garrison resignation
Weeks makes firm promises on pro-life issues
(June 11, 2008) Russ Weeks this week told West Virginians for Life that he will be an active and aggressive governor on pro-life issues, promising that if elected:
--By executive order or, if needed, legislation, I will provide no more tax dollars to fund abortions.
--I will include at least one piece of pro-life legislation every year.
--I will bring pressure to bear to put pro-life legislation on the agenda.
Weeks challenges Manchin to add pro-life measure to special session

(June 13, 2008)Republican gubernatorial candidate Russ Weeks today challenged Gov. Joe Manchin to include legislation to further limit taxpayer funding of abortions to the agenda for the anticipated upcoming special session of the State Legislature.

Such a measure has been sought annually by West Virginians for Life.

Weeks noted that the state of West Virginia spent almost $350,000 of taxpayer money to pay for abortions in 2006.

"The federal government requires that we pay for abortions for rape, incest and life of the mother, yet West Virginians are forced to pay for abortions for any reason, even as a method of birth control," said Weeks. "West Virginia is one of only 18 states that uses tax dollars to pay for abortions on demand."

Since 1993, the state of West Virginia has spent $5 million to pay for more than 12,000 abortions, said Weeks.

"As governor, I will end taxpayer funding of abortion on demand either by executive order or, if necessary, legislative action," said Weeks. "I challenge the governor, who claims to be pro-life, to demonstrate some kind of commitment to the issue through the office he holds."