Dear West Virginian,

Our state has been devastated after learning that Charleston Police Officer Cassie Johnson was killed in the line of duty after responding to a parking violation. Police officers like Officer Johnson selflessly put their lives on the line every day for the safety of our communities. It’s a hard job and one that is rarely appreciated enough. I ask that that we all take a minute today and every day to thank our law enforcement and recognize the sacrifices they make to ensure our communities are safe and protected.

I spoke with Officer Johnson’s mother on the phone on Thursday, and she repeated her daughter’s commitment to organ donation. Even in Cassie’s tragic death, others will live because of her. What a testament to an amazing woman. 

I paid tribute to Officer Johnson on the floor of the Senate, ensuring her name is escribed on the annals of history:



Please continue to keep Officer Johnson’s family, the Charleston Police Department, and all of Charleston in your prayers.

Supporting the West Virginia National Guard

The West Virginia National Guard has been an invaluable asset for our state as we continue to battle the coronavirus pandemic. As we begin preparation to distribute a vaccine, we should continue to support their efforts. That’s why I asked President Trump to extend Title 32 orders. On Thursday, President Trump announced that he would be extending the orders through March 2021. This is great news. This extension will allow our National Guard the support they need and benefits for the vital work they are performing in our communities during this difficult time.

Read more in this article from WVNews:

The Best and Brightest

Every year, I have the privilege of nominating high school students to attend the U.S. Service Academies. I’m pleased to announce this year, I’ve nominated 31 students from 11 counties to represent our state. You can read all of their names here.

For all of these students—high school seniors especially—I recognize this isn’t the school year they were expecting. However, I hope this announcement is a bright spot. These students have adapted to the circumstances and made the most of their year. I know they will continue to exude that West Virginia spirit in this next chapter of their lives.

For more information on the Academy Nomination process, visit my website here.

Play Ball!

On Monday, I applauded Major League Baseball (MLB) and Prep Baseball Report (PBR) in their announcement of a new format for the New York/Penn League, which will feature MLB-draft eligible players. One of the founding members of this league will be in Morgantown—The West Virginia Black Bears.

The Black Bears being able to keep playing baseball is great news for all of West Virginia. It goes without saying that Morgantown offers so many assets, from the facilities, existing partnerships with the community, and wonderful fans who enjoy watching baseball on West Virginia summer nights. When it was announced that the Black Bears were rumored to be on the list to be eliminated as an MLB affiliate, I worked constantly to make sure we had a suitable way to be able to keep playing baseball and this opportunity allows them to do so. Learn more about the details of the announcement here.

Additional COVID-19 Resources

I created a page on my website with information and resources to keep you up-to-date on the coronavirus situation as it continues to evolve. Check out that page here, and please share with friends so they can keep up with the latest.

In addition to my webpage, I also want to make sure you know where to get the latest updates from the medical experts at CDC.gov and West Virginia DHHR.



I will continue doing my best to keep you up to speed on what we are doing here at the federal level to help and other resources that can be useful back at home. I will be posting regular updates on my Facebook and Twitter accounts, so be sure to follow me there.

Important Information If You’re Visiting DC

Because of coronavirus concerns, all Capitol and White House tours have been suspended indefinitely. Please contact our Washington office to reschedule. Additionally, requests for flags flown over the Capitol may be delayed, and access to the Capitol and House and Senate office buildings is being restricted. Feel free to contact our office at (202) 224-6472 with any questions. We apologize for any inconvenience.

How Can We Help?

Whether you need help with a casework issue or have a question about scheduling a meeting at one of my offices, my staff and I are ready to assist you. Learn more about the services we offer at www.capito.senate.gov.

You can also submit your feedback and share your stories with me by visiting my “Share Your Stories” webpage here: www.capito.senate.gov/ShareYourStories.

Social Media Recap

Join me on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for regular updates and photos.

Sincerely,

Shelley Moore Capito

United States Senator