But, when you're faced with choosing from a long list of candidates, does it just make things more confusing?

That's what Republican voters will face during the special primary election Aug. 28. As of Thursday afternoon, nine Republicans had filed certificates of announcement with the Secretary of State's Office.

State GOP executive director, Troy Berman, predicted the lengthy lineup will produce a "robust" primary.

We asked State Journal publisher and veteran political observer Dan Page for his thoughts on the matter.

"It may attract more voters potentially," he said. "You have more hats in the ring. You have more options for which to vote. So, I don't think it's going to be a terrible hindrance. It'll be an opportunity for people to hear different kinds of voices."

The obvious front-runner for the Democrats is Gov. Joe Manchin.

And, Page said John Raese has the edge for the GOP.

"He has benn on the state ballot at least twice," Page said. "He appears to have a well funded campaign available to him. Also, the other candidates have nowhere near the experience on the campaign trail than John Raese."

Both Manchin and Raese have name recognition and plenty of money to spend on their campaigns.