On Thursday, Senator Joe Manchin announced he would not run for re-election in 2024, but he left open the possibility of running for president.
Manchin announced his decision through a video on a social media platform, asserting he had fulfilled his objectives for his state.
Manchin said he has made one of his life’s most difficult decisions and will not seek re-election for the U.S. Senate. He expressed gratitude to his constituents and outlined his plans to explore the nation to gauge interest in a campaign that unites centrist voices.
Manchin’s departure from the Senate race opens a potential opportunity for the Republicans to gain a seat, considering the Democrats’ slim majority. He faced potential competition from West Virginia’s Republican Governor Jim Justice, who was ahead in early polls. Justice is also contending with other Republicans for the nomination. Even if Manchin had decided to run for re-election, the seat was already considered a top pickup for Republicans in 2024.
During a recent interview, Senator Manchin discussed a number of pressing issues facing the country, including extreme politics, growing divides, rising prices, the southern border crisis, the national debt, and safety. He emphasized that these challenges are not limited to a particular political party but are challenges that affect all Americans. However, many of these issues have worsened during Joe Biden’s presidency.
He has been open to a bipartisan presidential bid, with speculations of a potential alliance with former Utah Governor John Huntsman, after a joint appearance at a political event. The political organization No Labels lauded Manchin as a significant Senate figure and mentioned ongoing deliberations for a bipartisan presidential ticket, with a decision expected by early 2024.
Manchin’s career in public service for West Virginia spans decades, including a term as governor before his time in Congress. He reiterated his thanks to his supporters in his social media post.