State Senator Ben Queen New Senate Majority Whip
By Connect-Bridgeport Staff on January 17, 2026
The West Virginia State Senate's youngest member has been promoted to a key leadership position by Senate President Randy Smith.
Earlier this week at the State Capitol in Charleston and just a day before the start of the legislative session, State Senator Ben Queen (R - Harrison County) was named the Majority Whip of the Senate effective immediately. He replaces Senator Jay Taylor who was promoted to Senate President Pro Tempore.
Queen, age 30, is a resident of Bridgeport. At 25 years old in 2022, he was elected to his first term in the State Senate making him the third 
youngest ever elected to the WV State Senate. Queen represents Harrison, Lewis, Gilmer, Calhoun, and half of Taylor County that make up Senate District 12. Senator Taylor represents the other half of Taylor County that is part of District 14.
youngest ever elected to the WV State Senate. Queen represents Harrison, Lewis, Gilmer, Calhoun, and half of Taylor County that make up Senate District 12. Senator Taylor represents the other half of Taylor County that is part of District 14.
“I’m grateful to these senators for agreeing to step up and take on new leadership roles as we get started this year,” Senate President Smith said.
“These changes put us in a strong position to lead with a strong West Virginia-first agenda. I am confident that with our new leadership, we will bring monumental change to our citizens. I look forward to the work that each of these senators will do during our upcoming Regular Session.”
Senator Queen also serves as the Vice Chairman of the Energy, Industry & Mining Committee; and Chairman of the Technology & Infrastructure Interim Committee. He serves as a member of the Senate Finance; Health & Human Services; Natural Resources; and Workforce Committees.
"I appreciated the Senate President's confidence and trust in me to serve in this new position," Queen said. "I'm proud of the opportunity that the voters of my District have given to me to be a voice for young families throughout the state."
Senator Queen attended public schools in Harrison County (Bridgeport High School graduate) and attended WVU. He is an entrepreneur and sports photographer. He and his wife Meredith, have one son, Arthur, who turns two in April.
Editor's Note: Photo of Ben and Meredith Queen courtesy of Will/West Virginia Legislature.
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