Press Release

FROM THE DESK OF

Delegate S. Chris Anders

97th District – West Virginia House of Delegates

Dear Neighbor,

This letter is a short autobiography of my first legislative session — a snapshot of the fights we took on, the battles we’re still waging, and the principles that guided me every step of the way.

Throughout the session, I kept you informed. I sent emails, posted video updates several times a week, and gave you an unfiltered view of what was really happening in Charleston. You deserve honesty — not spin.

When I took the oath of office, I swore to uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States and of West Virginia — and I meant it. Every vote I cast, every amendment I offered, and every stand I took was guided by one thing: protecting your liberty, your property, and your God-given rights.

One of the biggest challenges this session was the explosion of government spending. The state didn’t run a surplus — it increased spending by hundreds of millions of dollars. I voted no. Why? Because government spending is a tax, whether you see it now in higher income and sales taxes or later through inflation. The inflation tax is real, and it’s crippling families right here in our district. I fought to rein in this reckless growth and will continue defending your paycheck and your future.

I introduced HB2469 to eliminate the so-called “rain tax”, a ridiculous fee that punishes property owners for the weather. Leadership refused to run the bill — not because it lacked merit, but because too many politicians protect special interests instead of taxpayers. However, I worked behind the scenes with several state senators and delegates to help pass a ban on MS4 regulations, which prohibits any local regulation beyond state or federal standards. While not a direct repeal, this legislation was designed specifically to stop the rain tax from being weaponized against our people ever again.

I also led the fight to repeal Certificate of Need laws — outdated regulations that block new healthcare providers from helping our communities. Bureaucrats shouldn’t get to decide whether a new clinic is allowed to open. West Virginians deserve access to affordable healthcare — not red tape and monopolies.

When SB48, the bill to allow counties to raise local sales taxes, came up, I stood firmly against it. It wasn’t about “local control.” It was about giving politicians another tool to reach into your wallet. I said it plainly: “They spend like drunk college kids on spring break with their parents’ credit cards.” We stopped it in its tracks thanks to a strong coalition: Majority Leader Pat McGeehan, and Delegates Lisa White, Elias Coop-Gonzalez, Laura Kimble, Henry Dillon, Tresa Howell, Wayne Clark, Marty Gerhart, Larry Kump, and many others who refused to back down.

On medical freedom, I was proud to stand with many others to fight against vaccine mandates. We forced multiple roll call votes — and while we didn’t win the final round this session, those votes mattered. They put every legislator on the record and laid the groundwork for a future win. We will not stop until West Virginians have full medical freedom — not just in principle, but in law.

We also achieved a major victory in banning the chemical castration of minors in West Virginia. As I said during debate:

“This is not compassion — it is cruelty masquerading as progress. These children are being influenced by woke policies and broken adults who tell them they were born in the wrong body. But let me be clear: God did not make a mistake. We have a moral obligation to protect these young lives from irreversible harm.”

Another major win: we banned DEI (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion) programs in state government and education. These programs don’t promote unity — they promote division, resentment, and collectivism. I was proud to support this effort, led strongly by Delegate Elias Coop-Gonzalez, to root out this toxic ideology from our public institutions.

We also passed the Riley Gaines Act — legislation to ensure that only biological females compete in women’s sports in West Virginia. This should not be controversial. No young woman should lose out on a scholarship, a title, or a safe competition space because of political correctness. This was a crucial stand for fairness, safety, and common sense.

Another important accomplishment was passage of the Parents' Bill of Rights. I gave my full support on the floor because parents — not bureaucrats — are the ultimate authority in their children's lives. In my floor speech I said:

“This bill restores what never should have been taken — the right of parents to make decisions for their own children without interference from the state.”

We’re putting power back where it belongs: with families.

I stood up for the unborn — clearly and unapologetically. I told my colleagues, “If we won’t defend the most defenseless among us, we have no moral claim to defend anything at all.”

I also called out the unconstitutional surveillance operations taking place in Marion County — programs funded in part by federal politicians like Joe Manchin and Shelley Moore Capito. These efforts are a direct assault on the Fourth Amendment, and I won’t stay silent while the federal government uses our tax dollars to spy on us.

This session also brought a major Second Amendment victory. I was proud to co-sponsor HB2067, which passed into law and protects firearm manufacturers from being sued out of existence. We sent a clear message: West Virginia will not become a testing ground for anti-gun activist lawfare.

But telling the truth in Charleston comes at a cost. I refused to cut backroom deals. I refused to sell out. I never attended a single lobbyist happy hour or dinner, and I refused to trade my vote for free food or drinks. And because I won’t play the insider game or make friends with lobbyists, the establishment has tried to punish me. They blocked good bills, killed important reforms, and prioritized their lobbyist friends over the people they claim to represent.

The toughest thing about being a legislator is not giving into the groupthink — to stand firm on principle even when you're pushed, yelled at, and threatened. But I didn’t come here to take one for the team. I came here to defend the Constitution. And I will never vote against it.

“Groupthink in politics is a disease — and I didn’t come here to catch it.”

That brings me to something I believe we must urgently change: the House Rules. As they stand today, a single person — the Speaker of the House — decides which bills live or die. No bill gets a vote unless the Speaker allows it. That means one delegate, from one district, can silence the voices of every other district in this state.

This year, the Speaker was openly hostile to vital pro-life legislation, and bottled up nearly every true conservative bill — not because the ideas were flawed, but because they didn’t serve the Speaker’s personal or political agenda.

In many other states, every bill gets a vote. Every delegate is equal. But in West Virginia, we have a system where your elected representative is not equal — unless they bow to the Speaker. Committee assignments, leadership positions, and whether your bill even gets read — it all depends on loyalty to one person.

Let me ask: Why should the Speaker’s voters matter more than yours? They don’t. Why should a delegate from Clay County have more power over your life than your own representative? They shouldn’t.

Anyone who dares to question the Speaker’s control is punished — no bills run, no hearings, no votes, not even in committee. This isn’t democracy. It’s a power structure that’s still run by undocumented Democrats wearing Republican lapel pins.

Some fights we won. Others we’ve just begun. But through it all, I stayed true to the Constitution — and to you.

I didn’t come to Charleston to play politics or seek power. I came to stand between you and a government that’s grown far too comfortable telling you how to live. The oath I took wasn’t to a party, a committee, or a lobbyist. It was to the Constitution — and that still means everything to me.

I also want to thank my wife, Laura, for her unwavering support and strength during this session. Without her, I couldn’t stand as firmly as I do.

Thank you for the honor of representing you. The fight for liberty continues — and I’m not backing down.

I have not yet begun to fight.

In liberty,

Delegate S. Chris Anders

97th District – West Virginia House of Delegates

P.S. The far left and the political establishment are already targeting me in the upcoming 2026 election. They’ve made it clear they want me gone — unless I cave in. I won’t. But I can’t do it alone. If you believe in what we’re fighting for, please consider making a donation today. Your support keeps this fight alive.

Anders' Committee Statement on Ending Puberty Blockers for Minors

Today, I cast my vote to ban the use of puberty blockers on minors, and I do so knowing full well the gravity of this decision. This is a defining issue—morally, medically, and culturally.

Let me begin with the facts: the FDA has never approved puberty blockers for the treatment of gender dysphoria in children. These drugs are being used off-label, and there is a growing body of evidence showing deeply concerning side effects. That alone should raise red flags. But this isn’t just about regulatory gaps—it’s about the real harm being done.

In Europe, countries like Sweden, Finland, and Norway—nations known for their progressive values—have already moved to ban or severely restrict these treatments for minors. They did so after reviewing the evidence and concluding that the risks far outweigh the benefits. If these nations, which have long been held up as models of inclusion, have taken this step, we would be irresponsible not to do the same.

But beyond the science, beyond the data—this is a moral issue. I am not voting for this legislation out of fear, hatred, or judgment. I am voting for it out of love. Because truth matters. And the truth is that we cannot reduce the complexity and beauty of human biology to chemicals, surgeries, clothing, and pronouns. That makes a mockery of God’s most perfect—and yes, sometimes imperfect—creation.

Let me be clear: I had every reason to skip this vote. Someone very close to me, someone I love dearly, may never forgive me for this. They may sever ties with me completely—and that breaks my heart. But out of that same deep love, I must stand firm for the truth. Because to affirm a lie—no matter how lovingly—is to build a foundation that cannot hold.

We were told in testimony that banning these drugs will lead to children dying by suicide. That’s a heavy statement, but it’s false. What we’re seeing is a generation taught that they have no control, no responsibility, and that the only path to happiness is to fundamentally reject their very nature. That is not compassion. That is confusion. And it is our duty to draw a line.

Life is full of difficult truths—truths that challenge us, shape us, and ultimately strengthen us. I do not wish harm on anyone walking through this painful struggle. Quite the opposite. I want them to know that they were created with purpose, and that their identity—body and soul—was not a mistake.

We only get one life on this earth. And the sooner we accept the cards we've been dealt—not in defeat, but in strength and faith—the sooner we can find true joy, purpose, and peace. That’s what I want for every young person in West Virginia. That’s why I’m voting yes.

Anders Votes Against the State Budget

I wanted to give you a quick update on why I voted against the state budget—and why I will likely continue to vote no unless there are real changes that reduce the size and scope of government.

This year's budget is $252 million more than last year's. That’s not just a number—it’s an expansion of government at your expense.

Let me be clear: government spending is a tax.

Every single dollar the government spends is taken from someone—from you.

And it doesn’t stop there. Even when the state isn’t directly taxing you, they’re creating new ways to do it indirectly.

I can’t even tell you how many bills I’ve voted NO on this session because they would allow counties or municipalities to raise your taxes—local sales taxes, hotel taxes, service fees—you name it.

It’s a death by a thousand cuts, and it all adds up to less money in your pocket.

On top of that, we’re all feeling the impact of the inflation tax.

When government overspends, it drives up the cost of everything—gas, groceries, housing.

That’s yet another hidden tax, and it hits the hardest-working West Virginians the most.

The current budget goes far beyond the constitutional bounds of government.

I took an oath to uphold the Constitution, and that means I cannot in good conscience vote for bloated spending that grows government and chips away at your liberty.

I voted against the budget and most spending bills unless the funds are going toward the core duties of government: protecting life, individual liberty, and private property.

Every dollar spent beyond those duties only grows the bureaucracy, adds inefficiency, and takes more of your property—your paycheck.

Just because I don’t believe the government should do something doesn’t mean I don’t believe it should be done.

But government is always the least efficient, least effective, and most costly way to do anything.

I’ll keep fighting for a leaner, constitutional government that respects your liberty and your wallet.

The Constitution

The Constitution Limits My Power—It Doesn’t Give Me the Right to Rule Over You

By Delegate Chris Anders

97th District, West Virginia House of Delegates

Two hundred and fifty years ago, Patrick Henry stood in a Virginia church and declared: “Give me liberty, or give me death.” That fiery cry was not a political slogan—it was a declaration of purpose. It was a reminder that freedom is worth fighting for, even when the price is high.

As a member of the West Virginia House of Delegates, I take that same message seriously. I didn’t swear an oath to a political party or to follow the latest polling data. I swore an oath to uphold the Constitution. And let me be clear: that Constitution does not give me—or anyone else in this legislature—the authority to tell parents how to raise their children. In fact, it does the exact opposite.

We live in a Constitutional Republic—not a democracy. That distinction matters. In a democracy, the majority can vote away the rights of the minority. But in a Republic, the rights of the individual are protected—regardless of popular opinion.

And the most fundamental of those rights is this: that parents, not government, have the final say over how their children are raised, educated, and cared for. The idea that government should step in and override those decisions—using the heavy hand of law and regulation—is not just wrong. It is un-American.

Now let me address something head-on. Some people hear me speak about medical freedom and assume I’m anti-vaccine. I am not anti-vaccine.

I am anti–men with guns showing up to take away parental rights. That’s what this is really about: force. The power of the state being used to coerce families into submission, to override their conscience, and to make the government—not parents—the ultimate authority over children.

If for one moment you think the patriots who froze at Valley Forge, or marched barefoot to Trenton, did so just to trade one tyrant 3,000 miles away for 100 tyrants 20 miles away, you’re mistaken.

They didn’t fight a revolution so future politicians could sit in marble buildings and tell parents what to do with their kids.

Our Founders understood something we must remember: the individual is the smallest minority, and their rights cannot be voted away.

Not by 51 percent, not by 99 percent, not even unanimously.

Government exists to protect those rights—not to infringe upon them.

This is why I support Senate Bill 460. In fact, I’ll be blunt—it doesn’t go far enough. But it’s a start. A step in the right direction.

It affirms that parents have the fundamental right to make decisions for their children without interference from the state. That shouldn’t be controversial—it should be common sense in a free society.

Lately, I’ve seen too many politicians treating elected office like a throne—using it to impose their will instead of protecting your liberty.

I reject that entirely.

My job is not to rule over you. My job is to protect your rights.

Some say, “Well, the polls support this.” Others say, “People are demanding action.” To them I say: Polls don’t matter when liberty is on the line.

Public pressure doesn’t nullify the Constitution. We are not here to do what is popular. We are here to do what is right.

If standing on principle costs me an election, so be it. I’d rather lose with integrity than win by betraying the very freedoms I swore to uphold.

At the end of the day, I need to be able to look my constituents—and my children—in the eye and say: I defended your rights, even when it was hard.

I’m no Patrick Henry. But like him, I believe we must choose freedom over the false comfort of government control. I believe parents—not bureaucrats, not lawmakers—know what’s best for their children. And I will fight with everything I have to make sure that never changes.

Because at the heart of our Republic is a simple, powerful truth: Liberty belongs to the people—not the government.

And it’s time we started acting like it.

Press Release

Delegate S. Chris Anders

I need your help to urge our lawmakers and citizens of West Virginia to support HB2461—a critical bill introduced to protect our community and, most importantly, to protect the most innocent, the unborn.

Every day, abortion pills are shipped into our state without proper medical oversight and, in too many cases, without parental notification.

With chemical abortions making up 68% of procedures, this uncontrolled influx not only undermines our core values but also endangers public health.

Even when diluted, these chemicals have been detected in our public water systems, with emerging reports linking them to miscarriages in expectant mothers.

HB2461 makes it illegal to ship these dangerous substances into West Virginia, ensuring that our laws stand firmly in defense of life from conception.

This legislation is essential to:

• Safeguard Life: By preventing the distribution of abortion pills, we protect the most innocent, the unborn, and ensure that every human life is valued from its very beginning.

• Protect Public Health: Stopping the shipment of these chemicals reduces the risk of contamination in our water supply and shields our community from associated health hazards.

I introduced HB2461 because our state must act decisively to defend those who cannot defend themselves.

We owe it to our community—and especially to our unborn children—to prevent the unchecked spread of these harmful substances.

I call on all West Virginians to stand with me in support of HB2461. Let us unite to protect life, preserve our public health, and secure a future where every life is cherished.

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Floor Speech in Support of HB 2129- Parents' Bill of Rights

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I rise in strong support of HB 2129 because it affirms a fundamental truth: government was instituted to protect our pre-existing rights—not to grant them, not to restrict them, but to secure them. And among those sacred rights is the right of parents to direct the upbringing, education, and care of their children.

This is not a new concept. It is one of the foundational principles of our society, deeply rooted in our history and our laws. Parents—not bureaucrats, not politicians—know what is best for their children. HB 2129 ensures that this right is not just respected, but protected from unnecessary interference.

I urge my colleagues to stand with families, stand with parental rights, and vote in favor of this bill. Thank you."

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Big News: Full Slate of Sponsors for CON Repeal!

Just filled my bill with a full slate of sponsors to fully repeal the Certificate of Need (CON) laws—with no carve-outs!

Why is this so important? Because CON laws are nothing but government red tape that restrict competition, drive up healthcare costs, and limit access to care. These outdated regulations let bureaucrats decide who can open or expand healthcare facilities instead of letting the free market work.

By repealing CON entirely, we will:

Increase competition – More providers mean better services and lower prices.

Lower healthcare costs – When businesses compete, patients win.

Expand access to care – More hospitals, surgery centers, and medical services where they are needed.

End cronyism – No more government protection of big hospitals at the expense of small providers and patients.

It’s time to let the free market work in healthcare. No more government roadblocks. No more special deals. Just competition, lower costs, and better care for West Virginians.

Let's get it done! #HealthcareFreedom #NoMoreCON #WV

Monday Morning Update

Monday Morning Video Update - Second Amendment - Vaccine Freedom - Ivermectin OTC - Ending Certificate of Need - Hospital Price

Victory

November 6, 2024

Martinsburg, WV—Republican S. Chris Anders, endorsed by the National Association for Gun Rights, West Virginia Citizens Defense League, Students for Life, the Eastern Panhandle Business Association, Health Freedom Alliance, Make Liberty Win, We the People of West Virginia, Freedom Caucus, the NRA and many more, has emerged victorious as the new Delegate for District 97.

PDF press release download