Bill Cole

William Paul Cole III, commonly known as Bill Cole, is an American businessman and politician who served as a Republican member of the West Virginia Senate, representing the 6th district from 2013 to 2017. During his tenure, he held the position of President of the Senate, making him first in line for the governorship. Cole was also the Republican nominee for Governor of West Virginia in the 2016 election. His political career is marked by significant legislative actions and a focus on issues relevant to his constituents and party.

Early life and career

Bill Cole was born on May 16, 1956. He pursued higher education at Northwood University, where he earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree. Following his graduation, Cole returned to his hometown of Bluefield, West Virginia, to engage in the family business, which was operated by his father, Paul Cole. His father was notable for being the longest-serving mayor of Bluefield, which likely influenced Cole's interest in public service and local governance.

In addition to his business endeavors, Cole is a family man with two daughters, Elizabeth and Taylor, and two older sons, Jason and Lee. His sons are involved in the automotive industry, working for Cole Automotive Group, which reflects the family's deep-rooted connection to business in the region.

Cole's entry into politics began with a brief stint in the West Virginia House of Delegates, where he served from May 28, 2010, to January 12, 2011. He filled a vacancy created by the resignation of Delegate John Shott. This experience provided him with a foundational understanding of legislative processes and the workings of state government.

Legislative service

Cole's significant legislative career began in earnest when he successfully ran for the West Virginia Senate in 2012. He faced Democratic Senator Mark Wills, who had been appointed to the position. Cole was unopposed in the Republican primary held on May 8, 2012, where he garnered 2,757 votes. He then won the general election on November 6, 2012, receiving 18,598 votes, which accounted for 53.3% of the total votes cast against Wills.

Once in office, Cole became a prominent figure in the West Virginia Senate, particularly following the Republican takeover of the chamber. He was elected President of the Senate, making history as the first Republican to hold this position in 82 years. His election to this leadership role marked a significant shift in the state's political landscape.

During his presidency from 2015 to 2017, Cole was involved in various legislative initiatives. He championed Senate Bill 453, which aimed to restrict car manufacturers from selling vehicles directly to consumers, mandating that they sell through established franchises. This legislation reflected his background in the automotive industry and his commitment to protecting local businesses.

In December 2015, Cole took a stand on transportation issues by writing a letter to the Surface Transportation Board, opposing a proposed merger between Norfolk Southern Railway and Canadian Pacific Railway. His efforts contributed to Canadian Pacific ultimately breaking off negotiations in April 2016.

Cole's tenure was marked by the passage of several significant bills, many of which were enacted despite opposition from the Democratic governor at the time, Earl Ray Tomblin. Among the notable legislation signed into law were measures that made judicial elections nonpartisan, banned abortions after the 20th week of pregnancy, legalized concealed carry without a permit, repealed the state's prevailing wage law, and enacted a right-to-work law. These actions underscored Cole's alignment with Republican priorities and his commitment to advancing a conservative agenda in West Virginia.

In 2016, Cole endorsed Donald Trump during a campaign rally in Charleston, aligning himself with the national Republican Party's direction and its presidential candidate. His endorsement was part of a broader strategy to consolidate support within the party as he prepared for his own gubernatorial campaign.

Policy focus and district

Throughout his legislative service, Cole focused on issues that resonated with his constituents in West Virginia's 6th Senate district. His background in business and the automotive industry informed his policy decisions, particularly regarding economic development and regulatory matters. By advocating for legislation that supported local businesses and limited direct competition from larger corporations, he aimed to bolster the economic landscape of his district.

Cole's legislative agenda also reflected broader Republican values, including a focus on individual rights and limited government intervention. His support for right-to-work legislation and the repeal of the prevailing wage law indicated a commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment in West Virginia. These policies were designed to attract new businesses and encourage job creation, which were critical issues for many residents in his district.

In addition to economic issues, Cole's stance on social policies, such as abortion and gun rights, aligned with the conservative values of his party. His support for measures that restricted abortion access and expanded gun rights resonated with many constituents who prioritized these issues in their voting decisions.

Despite his efforts and legislative accomplishments, Cole's political career faced challenges. He opted to run for Governor of West Virginia in the 2016 election rather than seek re-election to the Senate. His campaign received endorsements from prominent Republican figures, including Senator Shelley Moore Capito and state Attorney General Patrick Morrisey, which helped solidify his position as the Republican nominee. However, he ultimately lost the election to businessman Jim Justice.

Following his gubernatorial campaign, Cole's tenure as President of the Senate concluded, and he was succeeded by Mitch Carmichael. His legislative career, while relatively brief, was marked by significant achievements and a clear alignment with the Republican Party's goals in West Virginia.