In a new post at the College Conservative, writer Aaron Kidd examines the political history of West Virginia and Appalachian culture.

He concludes that Appalachia has always been essentially conservative.

Appalachian Conservatism

Here in West Virginia, caring for yourself, your family, and your neighbor is a way of life.

No, it isn’t required care by the government – no bureaucrat forces an individual or a company to be generous.  Instead, neighbors know you by name. They’re willing to lend a hand, and aren’t shy about sharing in their good graces.  When a loved one passes away, friends and family will say “let me know how I can help.” This isn’t a light hearted statement – fellow church members, coworkers, and others will take food to family members, donate their time and money, and even help take care of pets and everyday life for those struggling with their loss.

Maybe that’s the thing I miss most when I travel across our great country.  For all the stereotypes and jokes, West Virginians demonstrate more compassion and caring than anyone I’ve ever met.

Traditionally, West Virginia has been dominated by the Democratic party.  The party built a reputation in our state for being the party of the working man – the ones who will fight for those every day workers, those going out to earn their keep.  This explains the popularity of the late Senator Robert C. Byrd, who sent millions of dollars over his tenure in Washington back to his home state, ensuring job creation and progress (albeit through pork barrel spending).

Yet for all of the work that the Democratic Party has done trying to build a blue collar reputation in WV, they’re beginning to see their work unravel.  As the national party makes a sharp left turn, conservative voters in the Mountain State are facing a decision.  The once dominant party is beginning to splinter as its members and leadership try to respond to the increased regulations out of Washington.