Washington, West Virginia — Assailant lunged at Democratic candidate for Ohio governor a

When news broke that an armed assailant lunged at Ohio gubernatorial candidate Amy Acton at a county fair, the shockwaves rippled across the Ohio River into our own Washington, West Virginia. For those considering a move here, this incident offers a stark comparison. While political violence is a national concern, it remains a rarity in our close-knit river town. Here, the “fair” still means the Washington-Wood County Fair, where the biggest headlines involve prize-winning livestock and church bake sales.

This contrast is central to Washington’s appeal. Our cost of living remains significantly lower than in Ohio’s stressed metropolitan hubs, with housing options that still feel attainable. The quality of life here is defined by slower streets, a restored downtown, and neighbors who know each other’s names—a civic fabric less prone to the fraying tensions seen elsewhere. The attack in Canfield is a grim reminder that proximity to national political drama can bring real danger. Washington offers distance without isolation, affording the safety of a small town while remaining within an hour’s drive of Columbus.

We don’t have campaign stops that turn into battlegrounds. We have Blennerhassett Island, the River Trail, and a community that prioritizes decency over division. For anyone seeking a place where the biggest drama is the weather, Washington is worth watching.

Source: Currents

View Washington city guide

Updated September 06, 2026.

Get your home essentials, storage, and moving supplies delivered.

Shop Moving Essentials

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.