West Virginia’s 1st congressional district lies in the northern part of the state, and includes cities like Morgantown, Wheeling, and Parkersburg. West Virginia’s congressional districts are divided completely along county lines. Mountains run through this district, especially in its eastern portions. This district has typically voted Republican since 2010, and is currently held by David McKinley of Wheeling, an incumbent from 2010. Before 2010, Democrats controlled the district; specifically, Allan B. Mollohan was the representative from 2000 to 2008. In several of those House races, there was no Republican on the ballot. Kendra Fershee (D) is running against David McKinley (R) in 2018. Fershee studied political science and communications at the University of Michigan and later in Tulane University. She worked as a deputy field director of People for the American Way, and as a professor of law. McKinley studied civil engineering at Purdue University. He worked in construction and started an architectural engineering firm in West Virginia. He also served in the West Virginia House of Delegates.