You can get a brief introduction by reading the about Richard Ojeda section on this site, but in this post we will take a deeper look into the journey of this American soldier, educator, and politician who has dedicated his life to service.

Richard Neece Ojeda II was born on September 25, 1970. He is serving as an American politician after retiring as an Army Major and becoming West Virginia State Senator. He was working as a member of the democratic party and ran a campaign for 2020 elections for President of United States before moving out on January 25, 2019.

Early life

Ojeda was the son of Florena and Richard N. Ojeda. Being born in a democratic family, he was registered as a democrat. In 1988, Ojeda graduated from Logan High school. He then attained a bachelor’s degree in General education, from West Virginia state university. Then, Ojeda earned master degree of Business and Organizational Security from Webster University.

Military service and teaching career

After completing the education, Ojeda served United States Army for 24 years. Here, he began his career as a soldier and then retired at the rank of major. While serving the nation, he was placed in South Korea, Jordan, Haiti, Afghanistan, Honduras etc. After retiring from Army, he worked as Junior ROTC at Chapmanville Regional high school starting from 2013 to 2017.

Political career

Ojeda entered politics in the year 2014, however he lost the elections losing to Nick Rahall.

Then in the year 2016, Ojeda was assaulted at the primary campaign by Jonathan S. Porter. Jonathan was sentenced for 1-5 years of prison along with $500 fine. Ojeda won both Democratic Primary for 7th district after defeating Art Kirkendoll. Ojeda also defeated Jordan Bridges in the general election held on November 6. 2016. During his tenure at West Virginia Senate, Ojeda made following moves:

  • Legalized medical Marijuana and the law was enforced on April 19,2017
  • He proposed increase in teacher wages, saying that low wages would increase labor layoff and strikes

Teacher strikes

Ojeda rose to fame because of his leading capabilities and early support to people. It was a month before the strike, he called fellow legislators to hear the complaints and look for resolutions to avoid the strike. In order to control the situation, following bills were introduced:

  • Public health care needs to be addressed
  • Increase teacher wages
  • Give tax deductions to teachers on classroom supplies

2018 US House campaign

Ojeda then ran over to fill the seat of Republican Evan Jenkins. His campaign was taken care off by regular residents, who did all the work without any pay and while carrying off their regular jobs. The campaign was financially supported by Individual donors and labor unions. Each donor was asked to contribute $25 to $100 which can help conduct successfully campaigning. It was on May 9, 2018 Ojeda defeated Shirley Love, Paul Davis and Janice Hagerman.

On November 6, 2018 Ojeda was defeated by 12 points in General elections against Caral Miller. Even though the election was a loss for Ojeda, but democrats considered that it brought 32 point improvement in election performance.

Presidential campaign 2020

It was in the year November 2018, when Ojeda declared formation of Principal Campaign Committee. He approached Federal Election commission to build up Richard Ojeda committee and stand up in elections as President of United States. To ensure complete focus, he resigned from his West Virginia Senate.

Surprisingly after few days of resignation, Ojeda asked Senate Ministry leader if his resignation at West Virginia can be revoked and if he can talk to Republican Governor on the matter. It was finally on January 26, 2019 he announced his dropping out from the race.

Main reasons which was cited for the big step was inability to get networks and conduct facetime. He even mentioned that fighting an election requires wealth and power, and fighting without it makes you lose the battle in the beginning itself. The withdrawals was also announced officially on his Facebook handle, spreading the news across the world and reasons which led to the same.

Positions in Politics

Ideological orientation: The man was identified as a traditional democrat who strongly took steps to maintain democracy. He had a belief that democracy is drifting away and party is becoming more a party of elites.

Labor rights: Ojeda was strongly against right to work laws, and was one of the influential members of unions. Owing to his active participation in the union, he managed to receive donation of $121,440.

Cannabis: Ojeda is an advocate for medical marijuana and it should be noted that he does have a business interest with a CBD oil company as a co-founder.


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