The Associated Press

Sat, May 17, 2008 (12:27 a.m.)

Senator Jay Rockefeller wins an easy victory in West Virginia's Democratic primary.

Rockefeller is seeking a fifth term in the U.S. Senate.

He survived a challenge from two Democrats, including one who criticized him for endorsing presidential candidate Barack Obama.

Former state lawmaker Sheirl (SHARE-ull) Fletcher said the endorsement was proof that Rockefeller was out of touch with West Virginians. But neither Fletcher nor fellow challenger Billy Hendricks Jr. could prevent Rockefeller from winning his fifth straight Democratic nomination for a seat he's held since 1984.