West Virginia State House District 76

Current seat holder: Rick Garcia (Democrat).

Rick Garcia

Richard “Rick” Garcia is the Democratic incumbent representing West Virginia House of Delegates District 76, which includes parts of Marion County. Garcia is a Fairmont native and graduated from Fairmont Senior High School in 1973. Before serving in the state legislature, he worked with the Marion County Board of Education in transportation and was involved in local government, including service representing Fairmont’s Fourth Ward on City Council. Garcia was first elected to the House in 2024, defeating Republican Jon Dodds by 51% to 49%. He serves as the House minority vice chair of the Education Committee and also serves on the Higher Education Committee. His legislative work has included education-related proposals, including legislation addressing school discipline and a resolution concerning free early childhood education. In 2026, Garcia sponsored legislation proposing a $5,000 salary increase for certain inspectors, though it did not pass. Garcia won the Democratic nomination without opposition in May 2026 and will face Dodds again in the November general election.

“I could not be more proud. The Democratic Party understands what's at stake for the state and the nation to give people a real choice when they vote this November.” (The Real WV)
“I couldn't be more proud of the Democrats stepping up to run for State Senate. These candidates are focused on affordability and other kitchen table issues that matter most to working families.” (The Real WV)
“West Virginia has the lowest number of women elected in a state legislature and the policies often reflect that. This year, we're excited to break a new record with the number of women we have on the ballot. We look forward to electing more women from around the mountain state to be a voice in the House and State Senate!” (The Real WV)

Jon Dodds

Jon Dodds is the Republican candidate for West Virginia House of Delegates District 76 and is running against Democratic incumbent Rick Garcia. Dodds is from Fairmont and has worked in technology for more than three decades. He has served as a network engineer at Fairmont State University and has been involved in university governance and staff advocacy. Fairmont State recognized Dodds with its 2025 Presidential Service Award for his service to the university and local community. Dodds previously ran for the House in District 76 in 2022 and 2024. In the 2024 general election, he received nearly 49% of the vote against Garcia. During the 2024 campaign, Dodds discussed issues including healthcare affordability, broadband and telemedicine, substance-use treatment, public safety, infrastructure, education, technical training and economic development. He also emphasized manufacturing and blue-collar job creation. Dodds won the Republican nomination without opposition in May 2026 and will face Garcia in November.

“It's a balance, but I believe in parental choice,” (yahoo.com)
“I think we need to increase our tax base with again, business, industry, jobs, and there's so many things that are being done and can be done that can continue to increase those revenues to fund public schools.” (yahoo.com)