Shawn Lucas Fluharty was born on January 5, 1984, in Wheeling, West Virginia. He is the son of a teacher and a union electrician, and his early life began in a trailer park in Marshall County. Fluharty is an attorney practicing in Wheeling and has been deeply involved in his community, including serving as co-chair of the "Retention Committee" created by Mayor Glenn Elliott. His life has been marked by personal tragedy, as three family members were murdered during a robbery attempt in Ohio County.

Education

Fluharty earned his Bachelor's degree from West Virginia University School of Journalism in 2006 and his Juris Doctor from West Virginia University College of Law in 2009. He is a member of the West Virginia Bar Association and the Ohio County Bar Association.

Political Experience

Fluharty is a Democratic member of the West Virginia House of Delegates, representing District 5 , which covers most of Ohio County. He has served in this position since 2014, following two unsuccessful campaign attempts prior to his election.

As a delegate, Fluharty serves as Minority Whip and is the minority vice-chair of the House's Industry and Labor Committee. He has been a vocal advocate on issues including labor, coal mining, gas and oil industries, and higher education. Among his notable legislative initiatives is the "Stay in the State Act," which proposes tax credits for businesses that employ in-state college graduates and assists employees with paying down student loans.

Fluharty has gained recognition for speaking against the Republican majority on key issues affecting West Virginia. He has also demonstrated bipartisan cooperation, working with fellow incumbent delegate Erikka Storch across party lines for the benefit of their constituents. Additionally, he serves as a Board Member of the National Council of Legislators from Gaming States and was recognized as a recipient of the 2015 West Virginia State Journal Generation Next Top 40 Under 40 award.