Nolan Rose
Nolan Rose is the Democratic nominee for House of Delegates District 19 and is running against Republican incumbent Kathie Hess Crouse. Rose is from Bancroft in Putnam County and describes himself as a working-class West Virginian. Rose’s campaign has focused on issues affecting workers and families, including economic security and worker protections. He says he is interested in how decisions made in Charleston and Washington can have an impact on people’s everyday lives. Rose won the Democratic nomination without opposition in the May 2026 primary.
· Candidate campaign website & Ballotpedia (secondary source)
Campaign site
“Working people built West Virginia, and working people should shape its future. I am running to strengthen collective bargaining, expand worker ownership, and ensure that those who create value share fairly in the rewards. An economy that rewards work over speculation will make our communities stronger and more stable.”
(Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey) “I am passionate about labor rights, economic development, healthcare access, and tax reform. I believe strong collective bargaining and local ownership are essential to building durable prosperity. I care deeply about rural healthcare sustainability, responsible energy diversification, and creating pathways for young people to build stable careers in West Virginia.”
(Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey) “I am running for Delegate District 19 because I know I can work for the working class and make a better West Virginia for us all.”
(Nolan Rose Campaign Website)Kathie Hess Crouse
Kathie Hess Crouse is the Republican incumbent representing House of Delegates District 19. She was born and raised in Charleston and attended West Virginia State University. Before entering politics, Crouse worked as an analytical technician at Dow Chemical and later as a microbiologist for the West Virginia Office of Laboratory Services. She also served on the state’s Bioterrorism Response Team before leaving that work in 2004 to become a stay-at-home mother. Crouse was appointed to the House of Delegates in 2021 and later elected to the legislature. She serves on committees including Education and Energy and Public Works. Crouse will face Democratic challenger Nolan Rose in the 2026 general election.
Campaign site
“Jobs & Economic Opportunity I am committed to growing our economy and creating good-paying jobs right here in West Virginia. By supporting business growth, workforce development, and smart investments like infrastructure and new industries, we can keep our families together and build a stronger future. My focus is on creating opportunities so our kids and grandkids can live, work, and thrive here at home.”
(Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey) “I am passionate about growing West Virginia and creating real opportunities for our people. That starts with bringing good-paying jobs to our state and keeping our children and grandchildren here at home. We should not have to watch the next generation leave to find opportunity elsewhere. By strengthening our economy, supporting workforce development, and investing in our communities, we can make West Virginia a place where families can build a future, raise their children, and thrive for generations to come.”
(Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey) “Thank you for your interest in supporting me for West Virginia State House of Delegates, District 19. I hope to show you why you want me for your next West Virginia State Delegate.”
(Kathie Hess Crouse Campaign Website)