CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Kanawha County Commission President Kent Carper says he disagrees with Governor Jim Justice’s decision to fire chief of staff Nick Casey after he switched parties from Democrat to Republican.
“I know of no one that is more decent, moral person than Nick Casey. Having said that, I don’t like it, but the governor is the governor and it’s his choice,” Carper said on Tuesday’s “580 Live” heard on 580-WCHS.
Casey was let go Monday. He told MetroNews he was fired by telephone while out of town celebrating his wedding anniversary.
Carper said Casey is a good man who often gives back to the community.
“This guy goes out and spends a month or so every year fixing houses up himself — not just gives money. He’s raised money for the church. I have seen him make sure that little kids get things that they need. He never, ever took any credit for it,” he said.
State Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Hall (R-Putnam) is now being considered as the next chief of staff for the Justice administration.
Justice is scheduled to hold a press conference at the state Capitol at 10 a.m. Wednesday to discuss the situation.