Gilmer Free Press

Maloney Brings GOP Stars to WV to Raise Money

Bill Maloney is bringing two Republican Party stars to West Virginia as he ramps up his campaign against Democratic Governor Earl Ray Tomblin.

Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal will be in Morgantown for a private fund-raiser Tuesday evening, while former presidential candidate and Texas Governor Rick Perry will be in Charleston for a private party on Thursday.

Tickets for the events are $500 to 1,000 per person, depending on whether supporters want a private reception and photographs.

Both governors are expected to do brief appearances with the media beforehand.

Maloney, a Morgantown drilling engineer and business owner, lost to Tomblin by less than 7,050 votes in the 2011 special election.

Tomblin spokesman Chris Stadelman said Friday the governor has no immediate plans for similar visits from high-profile Democrats.