My sister told me about this once, that state lines don't really represent the various kinds of people:
- Coastal People
- Plains/Desert People
- Mountain People
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
West Virginia Senator Chris Rose Introduces Resolution Inviting Virginia and Maryland Counties to Join the Mountain State
Charleston, WV – November 5, 2025 – Today, West Virginia State Senator Chris Rose introduced a Senate Resolution inviting 21 counties from Virginia and three from Maryland to consider joining West Virginia, aiming to strengthen regional ties and promote shared Appalachian values.
The resolution highlights the historical precedent set by West Virginia's formation in 1863, when counties separated from Virginia amid national division. It invites the Virginia counties of Augusta, Bath, Bland, Buchanan, Clarke, Craig, Dickenson, Frederick, Giles, Grayson, Highland, Lee, Page, Rappahannock, Rockingham, Russell, Scott, Tazewell, Warren, Wise, and Wythe, along with Maryland's Allegany, Garrett, and Washington counties, to explore unification. These areas share geographic, economic, cultural, and historical connections with West Virginia, including a strong Appalachian heritage, rural lifestyles, and a focus on individual liberties.
Senator Rose emphasized that the move could address residents' concerns over policies in their current states that may not align with local priorities, such as Second Amendment rights, economic development, and rural representation. "This resolution is about empowering communities to choose governance that truly reflects their values and needs," said Senator Rose. "West Virginia was born from the spirit of self-determination, and we're extending that invitation to our neighbors who share our way of life. By uniting, we can foster economic growth, better infrastructure, and a stronger voice for Appalachia."
The resolution notes that such a realignment would require approval from the Virginia and Maryland legislatures, as well as the U.S. Congress, under Article IV, Section 3 of the Constitution. It encourages discussions, referenda, and collaboration among residents, local governments, and state leaders.
Copies of the resolution will be sent to the governors and legislative leaders of Virginia and Maryland, the specified county commissions, and West Virginia's congressional delegation.