The governor announced he will remain governor of West Virginia until Jan. 13, when the incoming governor is sworn in, saying the move is intended to ensure continuity of government during the transition. "I am announcing today that I will remain governor of West Virginia until January 13th when governor Morrissey, our new governor, is sworn into office," he said.

In explaining his decision, the governor said he had discussed the timing with federal and state leaders and framed the choice as responding to the expectations of West Virginia voters. He said he had spoken with U.S. Senator Shelley Capito and that she was "very supportive" of his choice, and that he had spoken with other congressional leaders who he said understood the complexities involved.

During a brief question-and-answer, Charles Young of WV News asked whether the senator-level committee assignments were a good fit. The governor called the selections "home run picks," and singled out the energy committee as especially important. "Without any question, I really need to be on the energy committee... Energy is everything," he said, adding that he believes an energy strategy will help drive revenue and manufacturing in West Virginia.

The governor also said he expects to be sworn in as a U.S. senator after the state transition and described working with the incoming presidential administration as a priority. He closed by urging continued focus on the state's needs during the handover and offering holiday wishes.

The briefing provided no formal vote or legal action; the statement is a public declaration of intent and schedule.