Trenton Barnhart

Trenton Carl Barnhart is an American politician who is a Republican member of the West Virginia Senate. He previously served in the West Virginia House of Delegates.

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.

Elections

2019

Barnhart was appointed by West Virginia governor Jim Justice following the resignation of Delegate Jason Harshbarger, on September 17, 2019.

2020

In his first primary election, Barnhart was challenged by fellow Republican Kerry Murphy, whom he defeated with 53.65% of the vote.
Barnhart won unopposed in the general election.

2026

In January, 2026, Barnhart was appointed to the West Virginia Senate by governor Patrick Morrisey following the resignation of Senator Donna Boley.

Tenure

Committee assignments

Workforce Development
Banking and Insurance
Government Organization
Health and Human Resources
Small Business and Economic Development

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.

Gun rights

Barnhart is a member of the National Rifle Association of America. He has an A rating from the West Virginia Citizens Defense League, a gun rights organization, of which he is member, as of 2020. Barnhart was a sponsor of HB 2739, a bill that would declare West Virginia a Second Amendment "sanctuary state."

DC statehood

With many of his fellow Delegates, Barnhart signed onto a resolution requesting West Virginia Senators and Congressmen to oppose bills that would allow statehood for the District of Columbia.

Personal life

Barnhart is a Christian.