2025 Brought Achievements and Challenges, Morrisey Says

Gov. Patrick Morrisey reviewed some of the state’s biggest accomplishments – and offered some insights about his goals for the year ahead during his last press conference of the year Monday.

One of the developments of 2025 he said he is most proud of: the new state law that allows data centers to establish microgrids that can generate their own power – a move to attract more data centers and jobs.

“When I came there were no data centers. Well, we’re getting ready to announce some now, and we’re really, really close,” Morrisey said. “We’re going to be leveraging the intersection between energy and technology. We’re excited about that.”

Other achievements he highlighted include federal approval of the state’s broadband development plan, a move expected to bring high speed connectivity to some 73,000 West Virginians; and universal licensing reciprocity he said is already making it easier for licensed workers to relocate to this state.

But there are some challenges.

“The number one issue facing West Virginians: We have to grow our workforce participation and grow our population, and so we’re starting that process,” Morrisey said. “We have a lot more work to do in the new year on that.”

In the new year Morrisey says to look for new investments in workforce development, new initiatives to cut red tape and waste and a new focus on energy to help make West Virginia America’s energy state. 

The governor’s State of the State address, when he lays out his goals and expectations for the year ahead, is scheduled for January 14.