West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin, known for his centrist Democratic views, has sparked major political buzz with his latest statement. Just days after announcing his departure from Congress next year, Manchin revealed on Wednesday that he is seriously considering a run for U.S. president. In an interview with NBC, he emphasized his readiness to join the race if it meant contributing positively to the nation, stating, “Every American should consider it if they’re in a position to help save the country.”
Manchin, who has served West Virginia in various capacities since the early 1980s, has expressed concerns about the current state of division in the nation and the Democratic Party. Recently, he has been vocal about possibly breaking away from the Democratic Party, citing the political climate in the U.S. that leaves many Americans feeling “politically homeless.”
Amid these developments, Manchin hinted at a potential third-party campaign for the 2024 presidential election. This speculation gained traction after he and former Utah Republican Governor John Huntsman appeared together at a No Labels town hall in July. No Labels, a political organization, praised Manchin as a “great leader” and is considering a “Unity” presidential ticket for 2024.
Before making any official announcement, Manchin plans to gauge public interest in a moderate candidate. During the NBC interview, he expressed his commitment to rallying the moderate, sensible center of American politics, and his deep concerns about the possibility of Donald Trump winning another presidential term.
To the West Virginians who have put their trust in me and fought side by side to make our state better – it has been an honor of my life to serve you. Thank you. My statement on my political future: pic.twitter.com/dz8JuXAyTL
— Senator Joe Manchin (@Sen_JoeManchin) November 9, 2023
Manchin’s exploration of a presidential run follows his recent decision not to seek re-election to the Senate in 2024, a move he described as one of the hardest of his life. He intends to travel the country to see if there’s interest in creating a movement to unify Americans.
However, Manchin’s potential candidacy has already faced some opposition within his party. Maryland Governor Wes Moore, a prominent figure in President Biden’s re-election campaign, urged Manchin not to challenge Biden in 2024.
As the 2024 presidential race heats up, other candidates, including Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Cornel West, and Green Party candidate Jill Stein, are also vying for the presidency, adding to the dynamic political landscape.
