Once upon a time, Democrat Joe Manchin impressed Republicans. Although a Democrat, he worked with conservatives. The folks back home loved him, especially since he opposed the radical policies of Joe Biden.
Then, in 2022, Manchin caved to the radical left and supported Biden’s “inflation” bill.
This bill did nothing for inflation but will increase taxes dramatically over the years. Manchin is facing a serious Republican challenger in 2024. He is likely to lose his seat if he doesn’t make a drastic move. And, in a possible attempt to stave off a big loss, the senator suggested a career-altering shift.
Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., said Thursday that he is “seriously” considering becoming an independent and lamented that Washington Democrats’ brand had become “so bad.”
“I have to have peace of mind, basically. The brand has become so bad, the ‘D’ brand and ‘R’ brand,” Manchin told West Virginia Metro News’ “Talkline” host Hoppy Kercheval…
“I’ve been thinking about that for quite some time,” Manchin said. “I haven’t made any decisions whatsoever on any of my political direction, I want to make sure that my voice is truly an independent voice.” [Source: Fox News]
Uh-oh. Looks like Sen. Manchin might throw the Democrats’ Senate majority for a loop. During a recent interview, Manchin is “seriously considering” leaving the party to become an independent. He’d follow his colleague Sen. Sinema, a moderate who recently left the Democrat fold.
Manchin has toyed with the idea of running for president in 2024. If he becomes an independent, he might run against Joe Biden and the Republican nominee. Or, he might run for re-election to the Senate, but without the baggage of being a Democrat.
He faces a tough challenger, West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice. The Republican is polling ahead of Manchin and could take his job. But if Manchin ditches the Democrats, he might be able to save his job.
If Manchin does leave the party, Democrats lose another Senate seat. That will make their attempts at holding onto the majority very difficult. Republicans have growing momentum going into the 2024 Election. Anything can tip the balance in their favor.
Something like a long-standing Democrat jumping ship? Yeah, that’ll tip it!
Author: Jackson Stone