The meeting opened with a heartfelt invocation, where members expressed gratitude for their country and prayed for guidance in their political efforts. This was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, reaffirming the club's commitment to patriotic values and unity among its members. The atmosphere was one of camaraderie and shared purpose, setting the tone for the rest of the evening.
Treasurer Allie Beard then presented the club’s financial report, sharing that the club's current balance stood at $6,179.66. She highlighted the club’s efforts to grow its membership, which now totals 65 active participants, thanks to successful outreach and engagement efforts. Allie also assured members that updated contact lists would be distributed to facilitate better communication and coordination among members, demonstrating the club’s focus on transparency and accessibility.
Reflecting on recent activities, the club discussed its booth at the state fair, where they successfully raised approximately $1,300, effectively covering their expenses. Members voiced concerns about the possibility of future restrictions on political booths at the fair, following complaints from the Democratic booth. Despite these challenges, the club expressed pride in maintaining its presence and engaging with the community, underscoring its dedication to grassroots outreach.
Mark Hunt’s address was the highlight of the evening. Drawing from his extensive political background, Hunt detailed his years of service as a state senator and his work as counsel for the state auditor’s office. He emphasized the significant responsibilities of the auditor’s role, explaining how it oversees the state’s finances, administers the checkbook, and monitors securities offerings. Hunt elaborated on how the auditor’s office functions not just as a financial oversight entity but as a key administrative body that impacts a range of public works and programs across the state.
Hunt shared his vision for modernizing the office, particularly through the implementation of artificial intelligence to enhance the auditing process. He explained that AI could be used to efficiently scan and flag securities documents for potentially fraudulent activity, thereby improving the accuracy and effectiveness of the state’s financial oversight. He noted that such modernization efforts are crucial to protect West Virginians from potential financial scams and to ensure the responsible use of taxpayer dollars.
The former senator also spoke about the auditor's role in managing delinquent properties. He explained that while the process of reclaiming properties for unpaid taxes is lengthy, it is designed to give property owners every opportunity to keep their land before it is resold to benefit the state. Hunt expressed a desire to refine this process and improve efficiencies within the office, especially given the staffing challenges that have slowed operations. He emphasized the need for additional resources to manage these responsibilities effectively and vowed to advocate for the necessary support if elected.
Hunt’s speech further touched on his commitment to conservative principles, highlighting his support for eliminating sanctuary cities in West Virginia. He recounted his recent visit to the southern border, describing the issues he observed and the threats posed by illegal immigration and drug trafficking. He urged club members to remain vigilant and supportive of candidates who prioritize border security and conservative values, stressing that the Republican Party must remain united to ensure a successful election outcome.
The meeting also served as a platform for the club to promote its upcoming events. The club outlined plans for its Christmas Victory Dinner in December and a St. Patrick’s Day event in March 2025. Both events aim to engage and celebrate the local Republican community, offering members and supporters a chance to come together and build momentum. The Christmas dinner, in particular, will feature prominent speakers and a celebratory atmosphere in anticipation of Republican victories.
The evening concluded with a traditional and heartfelt rendition of “God Bless America,” led by Ben Anderson. This longstanding tradition, where members stand and sing together, reflects the club's deep-rooted sense of patriotism and unity. Attendees left the meeting motivated and ready to participate in the club’s upcoming initiatives, demonstrating the Greenbrier County Republican Club’s ongoing commitment to building a stronger, united Republican presence in the area.
131
• 0