Democratic Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia announced on Thursday that he will not seek reelection in 2024.
In a video message posted on social media, Manchin stated, “I have made one of the toughest decisions of my life, and decided that I will not be running for reelection to the United States Senate.” He went on to express his intention to travel the country and advocate for a movement to unite the middle and bring Americans together.
This decision poses a significant challenge for the Democratic Party, as Manchin, a centrist figure in a deeply conservative state, was viewed as crucial in maintaining their slim majority in the Senate beyond 2024. On the flip side, Republicans saw Manchin as the primary obstacle to securing control of this pivotal seat. National Republican Senatorial Committee Chairman Steve Daines remarked, “We like our odds in West Virginia,” following Manchin's announcement.
In an earlier interview, Manchin emphasized that the presidential field remains open, suggesting that the people have not yet had their say. He stated, “The parties, basically the Democratic and Republican parties, might be set on where they’re going, and who they think is going to be the representative, but the people haven’t spoken up yet.”
Recent polls in West Virginia, however, indicated that Manchin faced significant trailing behind the state’s Republican governor, Jim Justice.
Manchin, a former governor of West Virginia, was initially elected to the Senate in 2010.
Earlier this year, he sparked speculation of a potential third-party presidential campaign when he spoke at a No Labels forum in New Hampshire, affirming, “I’ve never been in any race I’ve ever spoiled. I’ve been in races to win… And if I get in a race, I’m going to win.”
It remains uncertain what specific endeavors Manchin will pursue after his departure from Capitol Hill.
By Salam Bustanji
