Trenton Carl Barnhart (born November 12, 1996) is an American politician who has served as a Delegate from the 7th district to the West Virginia House of Delegates since 2019. Barnhart is a Republican.
Early life, education, and career
Barnhart was born in St. Marys, West Virginia to Mark and Lori Barnhart. He has a B.A. and an M.B.A from the University of Charleston. He was employed as a community banker and compliance auditor. He was also a member of the Pleasants County Republican Executive Committee.[1]
Elections
2019
Barnhart was appointed by West Virginia governor Jim Justice following the resignation of Delegate Jason Harshbarger, on September 17, 2019.[2]
2020
In his first primary election, Barnhart was challenged by fellow Republican Kerry Murphy, whom he defeated with 53.65% of the vote.[3]
Barnhart won unopposed in the general election.[4]
Barnhart is an Assistant Majority Whip in the Republican-controlled House of Delegates.
Barnhart had a 14% rating from the West Virginia chapter of the Sierra Club as of 2020.[6]
Gun rights
Barnhart is a member of the National Rifle Association of America.[1] He has an A rating from the West Virginia Citizens Defense League, a gun rights organization, of which he is member, as of 2020.[7] Barnhart was a sponsor of HB 2739, a bill that would declare West Virginia a Second Amendment "sanctuary state."[8]