Huntington, WV – In a historic victory for West Virginia politics, DuRon Jackson, a longtime Huntington entrepreneur, was elected to the State Senate representing District 5, which includes Cabell County and part of Wayne County. Jackson’s win makes him the first African American male to serve in the West Virginia Senate.
From bakery owner to state legislator
Jackson, who owns Fairfield’s Kitchen and Bakery, told supporters that his success in business mirrors the effort needed in public service. “The bread isn’t going to bake itself, so you got to do the work,” he said, a nod to his culinary background and his new role in the Capitol.
He added, “I don’t think a whole lot of people realized that, so once you think about it, it’s appreciated. But my main focus is what the people put me in this position to do.”
Personal challenges shape public purpose
Jackson spoke candidly about his personal journey, noting that he struggled with substance abuse from age fourteen and recently overcame an alcohol addiction. He credited those experiences with giving him a deeper understanding of the challenges many West Virginians face.
“My whole life, I struggled with substance abuse since I was 14 years old, and then here recently, I overcame alcohol. I drank too much,” Jackson said. “I blame myself, saying it stood in the way of becoming the person I wanted to be.”
Economic opportunity and community support
As a businessman, Jackson emphasized the importance of creating jobs and supporting families beyond mere charity. “These days, we have to figure out how to bring everyone together, fill the table where we’re all seated, realize who is less fortunate, and be there to help them. Not just give charity and all that, but be the support structure,” he explained.
He expects his business experience to inform his legislative priorities, focusing on economic development for District 5 and the broader state.
Political climate and future goals
Jackson acknowledged that the national “blue wave” may have helped his campaign, but he stressed that his work in the Senate will be guided by civility and practical solutions. “I want to bring civility to politics and create economic opportunities for my district and the state,” he said.
He will be sworn in when the West Virginia Legislature convenes a few weeks after his official start date of January 1.
What’s next for District 5
Residents can expect Jackson to focus on policies that support small businesses, improve workforce training, and address substance‑abuse treatment options—issues he has faced personally and professionally. His election also signals a broader shift toward greater diversity in West Virginia’s political representation.
Jackson’s victory underscores the growing engagement of voters in Cabell and Wayne counties, and it offers a hopeful outlook for those seeking both economic revitalization and a more inclusive state government.
Original reporting: WCHS Eyewitness News Charleston (local) — read the source article.
