1970 United States Senate election in West Virginia

The 1970 United States Senate election in West Virginia was held on November 3, 1970. Incumbent senator Robert Byrd won re-election by the biggest margin at that point in his career.

1970 United States Senate election in West Virginia

November 3, 1970

Nominee Robert Byrd Elmer Dodson Party Democratic Republican Popular vote 345,965 99,658 Percentage 77.64% 22.36%

County results Byrd:      60–70%      70–80%      80–90%

U.S. senator before election Robert Byrd Democratic Elected U.S. Senator Robert Byrd Democratic

Background

The election was held during the 1970 United States Senate elections. In the election Democrats maintained their majority, but lost seats.

Results

Democratic primary

1970 West Virginia United States Senate Democratic Primary

Party		Candidate	Votes	%	±%
	Democratic	Robert Byrd (incumbent)	391,450	88.96%	N/A
	Democratic	John J. McOwen	24, 286	11.04%	N/A

General Election

1970 West Virginia United States Senate General Election

Party		Candidate	Votes	%	±%
	Democratic	Robert Byrd (incumbent)	345,965	77.64%	+9.97%
	Republican	Elmer Dodson	99,658	22.36%	−9.97%