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Del. Brandon Steele, R-Raleigh, submitted a one-sentence resignation letter to the clerk of the House of Delegates Thursday saying he was leaving his position effective immediately.
On the online news outlet Lootpress, which Steele owns, he said professional opportunities had arisen that would interfere with his service in the House.
“While I’m honored to represent them, I’ve had professional opportunities arise that would interfere with my service in the House of Delegates,” Steele told Lootpress. “I will always cherish the time I have spent in the House and the good work I was able to do while there. God bless the people of Raleigh County and the state of West Virginia.”
Steele was first elected to the House in 2018 and was reelected four times serving the 42nd delegate district.
A lawyer, Steele was slated to be the chairman of the prestigious House Judiciary Committee, but lost that position last January after police were called to his home.
Gov. Patrick Morrisey will accept recommendations from the Raleigh County Republican Executive Committee for Steele’s replacement and will select one person for the role.
The West Virginia Legislature will begin its regular 2026 session on Jan. 14.
