Former City Council Chair Jennifer Wheeler declared her candidacy for the position of Mayor of Huntington Monday May 1st via Facebook. Steve Williams is on the second half of his third term and has his sights set on winning the Democratic Party primary as candidate for Governor. While City Manager Hank Dial, Planning chief Cathie Burns and Public Works director Mark Bates are all considered credible candidates, former Council Chair Wheeler is the first to declare for the November 2024 general election competition.
Currently director of development at the Huntington Museum of Art on McCoy Road, Jennifer Wheeler gave up her elected seat on City Council in 2002, when she moved out of her council district and was subsequently replaced (in a vote in Council) by Sarah Wallings.
She is married to Ben Newhouse, is a Marshall alumni and worked for Cabell County before being elected to Council.
Her global announcement via Facebook reads in full:
“Friends, this feels like the right time to share some news about a decision that has been a long time in the making… It won’t come entirely as a surprise to many of you as this is something I’ve wanted to do for a long time. With the blessings and encouragement of my husband and our family, it is with great excitement that I share with you: I am running for Mayor of City of Huntington, WV in 2024!
I have already filed my pre-candidacy paperwork. I’d like to have told more of you in personal conversations, but this seems to be the best way to get the word out. There will be lots to say in the many coming months, but for now I will simply and humbly ask for your support. #WheelerMayor”*
PHOTO: February 26th, 2023 at the HMA Galleries Ball; Jennifer Wheeler on the left, with Huntington City Council Chair Holly Mounts, via Facebook.