Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) is positioning himself as a potential game-changer in the 2024 presidential election. The moderate Democrat, known for his pivotal role in the closely divided U.S. Senate, is hinting at an independent run, distancing himself from the Biden administration’s leftist policies.
Manchin, representing one of the nation’s reddest states, has often broken ranks with his party, particularly on issues like the For the People Act. His centrism, a rarity in today’s polarized political environment, has been a hallmark of his tenure in the Senate. This centrist stance might propel him onto the presidential stage, potentially under the banner of the bipartisan group No Labels.
Manchin told CNN on Sunday that he “absolutely” sees himself as a viable candidate, emphasizing his influential role in shaping Biden’s legislative agenda. Despite acknowledging Biden as a “good, decent man,” Manchin has expressed concerns about the administration being dominated by “far, far-left liberals.”
Manchin 'absolutely' can see himself as president, thinks Biden health or Trump conviction could give openinghttps://t.co/UIxcKzOyrc
— Wendy Kortepeter (@WKortepeter) January 29, 2024
His flirtation with a presidential run has not been without its critics. Some Democrats fear an independent candidacy could split the vote, damaging Biden’s reelection chances.
Manchin’s potential bid comes as the Democratic Party grapples with Joe Biden’s terrible poll numbers and the looming possibility of a rematch with President Donald Trump. Manchin is no fan of Trump, describing the prospect of his return to the White House as “very much concerning to every human being and every person who basically loves the country that we have.”
Manchin’s involvement with the political group No Labels could be a cornerstone of his potential presidential campaign. This bipartisan organization has advocated for a “unity” ticket in the upcoming election, aiming to bridge the deepening divide in American politics.
No Labels has expressed its admiration for Manchin, describing him as a “tireless voice for America’s commonsense majority.” This endorsement from the group could serve as a significant boost, underscoring his appeal to centrist and independent voters.
As the country gears up for the 2024 election, Manchin’s decision remains of interest to both major parties. “Super Tuesday pretty much confirms whatever is going to happen, what we believe will happen, and we’ll see where we go from there,” he said.
