The arrest of West Virginia Delegate-elect Joseph de Soto has sent shockwaves through the state’s political landscape. De Soto, a medical doctor from Gerrardstown, was taken into custody on Thursday following allegations of making terroristic threats against fellow lawmakers, including House Speaker Roger Hanshaw. The threats reportedly stemmed from de Soto’s anticipated removal from his GOP caucus position for undisclosed reasons. This incident has raised concerns about the safety of elected officials and their families, and sparked discussions about the vetting process for political candidates.
De Soto’s alleged threats were specific and disturbing. According to the criminal complaint, he stated his intention to kill several Eastern Panhandle lawmakers and Speaker Hanshaw, claiming to be “at peace” with his plan. He invoked religious justifications, citing a vision from the Mormon Angel of Moroni and claiming divine instruction to eliminate certain individuals. These pronouncements, coupled with his emailed statement “They play stupid games, they are getting stupid awards,” underscore the severity of the allegations.
One of the targeted lawmakers, Delegate Wayne Clark, recounted the chilling experience of being advised to relocate his family due to the threats. Clark received the call mid-commute, forcing him to drive through a snowstorm before reuniting with his family hours later. He commended law enforcement for their swift action in ensuring his family’s safety and expressed hope that de Soto receives the necessary help, acknowledging potential underlying issues. Clark also highlighted the unfortunate reality of public life often exposing individuals’ identities and actions, but emphasized the sanctity of family and the distress caused by such threats.
The incident has further political ramifications due to de Soto’s reported last-minute switch from Republican to Democrat just prior to his arrest. This move potentially complicates the process of filling his vacant seat, as West Virginia law dictates that the outgoing lawmaker’s party appoints a replacement. Given the existing Republican supermajority in the State House (89-11), this change in affiliation could lead to a partisan battle over the appointment. The incident also raises questions about the vetting process for political candidates and the potential for individuals with unstable backgrounds to gain access to positions of power.
The West Virginia Democratic Party, through Chair Del. Mike Pushkin, expressed solidarity with the affected delegates and their families, emphasizing that public servants should not fear for their safety. Pushkin called for the allegations to be treated with the seriousness they deserve under the law. Meanwhile, the West Virginia Republican Party Chairman, Matt Herridge, condemned de Soto’s behavior and avowed any connection to him, reiterating their support for the House leadership’s expulsion efforts. Herridge also underscored the sacrifices made by elected officials and the injustice of threats against them and their families.
This incident underscores the vulnerability of public figures and the importance of robust security measures to protect them and their families. It also highlights the need for thorough vetting processes for political candidates to identify potential risks and prevent individuals with histories of violence or instability from attaining positions of power. The case of Joseph de Soto serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of unchecked anger and the importance of addressing mental health concerns. It remains to be seen how the legal proceedings unfold and what long-term impact this incident will have on West Virginia politics. However, it has undoubtedly sparked a conversation about the safety of elected officials, the role of political parties in vetting candidates, and the need for greater awareness and support for mental health issues.
