By — John Raby, Associated Press John Raby, Associated Press Leave your feedback Share Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/jay-rockefeller-former-west-virginia-governor-and-u-s-senator-dies-at-89 Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Jay Rockefeller, former West Virginia governor and U.S. senator, dies at 89 Politics Nov 6, 2026 10:37 AM EST CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) — Jay Rockefeller, the last member of his family's political dynasty — and the only Democrat — who served as West Virginia's governor and later a longtime U.S. senator, has died. He was 89. Rockefeller died Thursday night at his home in Washington, said Mary Stewart, vice president for external affairs at WETA, the public broadcasting station where Rockefeller's wife, Sharon, serves as president and CEO. Rockefeller came from one of the nation's richest families to spend a half century in public service in one of the poorest states. He arrived in 1964 as a worker in an anti-poverty program, was elected governor a dozen years later and served two terms, then spent 30 years as a U.S. senator. Educate your inbox Subscribe to Here’s the Deal, our politics…
Jay Rockefeller, former West Virginia governor and U.S. senator, dies at 89
In short
John D. Rockefeller IV originally arrived in West Virginia in 1964 with the Volunteers in Service to America program before launching his political career. He served in the state House of Delegates, worked as secretary of state, and led West Virginia Wesleyan College following his only political defeat. Later, during his two terms as governor, he concentrated state resources heavily on vital infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and sewers.
Key points
- Rockefeller was the only Democrat and the final active member of his family's famed polit…: Rockefeller was the only Democrat and the final active member of his family's famed political dynasty.
- His time as governor was highlighted by extensive statewide upgrades to roads, sewers, an…: His time as governor was highlighted by extensive statewide upgrades to roads, sewers, and bridges.
- Bipartisan state leaders widely praised his half-century of commitment and lasting legacy…: Bipartisan state leaders widely praised his half-century of commitment and lasting legacy for West Virginians.