Governor Patrick Morrisey has appointed Ian Masters, president of the West Virginia Citizens Defense League, to a vacated House of Delegates seat. Masters replaces Joseph de Soto, who is currently under home confinement on threatening charges. The appointment has sparked controversy, with Democrats arguing that precedent suggests a Democrat should fill the seat. The state Democratic Party has filed for clarification from the state Supreme Court. Masters, a lawyer from Gerrardstown, brings conservative leadership to the 91st District.