Erika Kolenich: Championing Change in West Virginia – A Story of Entrepreneurship and Leadership
In the heart of West Virginia, Erika Kolenich has built a thriving law practice, Klie Law, while also stepping into the political arena as a Libertarian candidate for governor. Her journey as both an entrepreneur and a public servant offers a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing small business owners and residents of the Mountain State.
Erika’s story is not just about her success as a businesswoman, but about her deep commitment to West Virginia and its people. Erika shared insights from her entrepreneurial journey, her passion for making a difference, and her vision for West Virginia’s future.
Building a Business from the Ground Up
Erika’s law firm, Klie Law, which has expanded to four offices across the state, didn’t start out as a large operation. She recalls the humble beginnings of the firm—a one-room office painted purple, furnished with a desk from Kmart. “No one gave me anything,” she said, reflecting on the challenges of building her business from scratch. Her tenacity and belief in herself have been key drivers of her success. Today, Klie Law supports 45 employees and continues to grow.
A Vision for West Virginia
Erika’s commitment to West Virginia extends beyond her law practice. She is driven by a desire to see the state thrive and its residents succeed. “People here are so real, so genuine,” she said, highlighting the strength of West Virginians—their kindness, resilience, and willingness to lend a helping hand. This deep connection to the people fuels her vision for the state.
As a Libertarian candidate for governor in the 2024 election, Erika’s platform is built on the idea that West Virginia can be transformed through bold leadership and innovative thinking. She passionately speaks about the need for change, noting that both major political parties have had their chance to improve the state, yet West Virginia remains at the bottom of many key rankings.
Erika believes that the future of West Virginia lies in empowering its residents, especially the younger generation. “We can’t let our past dictate our future,” she said, calling for a new vision that fosters entrepreneurship, leverages the state’s natural beauty, and capitalizes on remote work opportunities. Her economic plan emphasizes creating a level playing field for businesses and supporting innovation at every level.
Running for Governor: A Journey of Commitment
Running for governor is no easy feat, but Erika has embraced the challenge with enthusiasm. From attending events like the Roadkill Festival to the Wine and Jazz Festival, she has made it a priority to be out in the community, listening to West Virginians and understanding their concerns.
While campaigning has been tough, it’s also been rewarding. “It’s exciting to be out there amongst the people,” Erika said. She values the opportunity to hear directly from West Virginians, even when they may not agree with her politically. For her, these conversations are essential to truly understanding the state’s needs and challenges.
A Message of Hope for West Virginia
Erika Kolenich’s story is one of hope, determination, and a deep love for West Virginia. As both a successful entrepreneur and a candidate for governor, she exemplifies the spirit of the Mountain State. Her message to West Virginians is clear: the potential for growth, success, and a brighter future is here, and it starts with believing in ourselves and each other.
To learn more about Erika’s campaign and her vision for West Virginia, visit nowisthetimewv.com.
