I am excited to announce that today, I officially filed to run for governor of our great state under the Mountain Party ticket. I am humbled by the support and encouragement I have received from members of our community who believe in my vision for a better West Virginia.

However, as I paid the filing fee of just shy of $1,900, I couldn't help but think about how classist this system is. It is a clear indication that only those who are financially well-off can afford to run for office. This is not just a problem in our state, but in the entire country. It is a barrier that prevents ordinary citizens, especially those from marginalized communities, from participating in the democratic process.

As a socialist, I believe that everyone, regardless of their financial status, deserves a fair chance to run for office. It is not fair that someone's bank account determines their eligibility to serve their community. The fact that you have to pay a large sum of money just to be considered a candidate is a form of discrimination against those who are broke or poor.

I am running for governor because I believe that everyone deserves basic human rights – a roof over their heads, food in their bellies, a free education, and decent healthcare. These are not luxuries, but necessities that should be accessible to all. It is unacceptable that in a country as wealthy as ours, we still have people struggling to meet their basic needs.

Furthermore, I am committed to addressing the issues of homelessness and drug addiction in our state. Instead of punishing and criminalizing these individuals, I believe in investing in mental health treatment, rehabilitation, and providing free public housing. These are the steps we need to take to truly help our fellow West Virginians and create a more equitable society.

I am not a politician, but a member of this community who understands the struggles and challenges that we face. I am not seeking power or personal gain, but to bring about positive change for the people of West Virginia. And I will continue to fight against any systems or policies that perpetuate classism and hinder the voices of the marginalized.

I urge you to join me in this fight for a fair and just society. Together, we can create a West Virginia where no one is left behind and everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Let's build a future where basic human rights are not a privilege, but a reality for all.

Thank you.

Sincerely,
Chase Linko-Looper

Candidate for Governor of West Virginia under the Mountain Party ticket