(Rightallegiance.com) – In a surprising turn of events, West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin, known for his moderate political stance, announced on Friday that he is leaving the Democratic Party and registering as an independent. Despite this shift, Manchin will continue to caucus with Senate Democrats until the end of his term, maintaining the current balance of power in the Senate. Manchin, who serves as the chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, confirmed this decision through his office.
Manchin emphasized his commitment to his state and country, stating, “From my first day in public service in 1982, I have always focused on doing what’s best for my state and my country, without regard to party or politics. Throughout my days in elected office, I have always been proud of my commitment to common sense, bipartisanship and my desire to bring people together. It’s who I am. It’s who I will always be. I have never seen America through a partisan lens.”
Reflecting on his time as a U.S. Senator since 2010, Manchin criticized the increasing partisan extremism of both major parties. He expressed his frustration, saying, “I have seen both the Democrat and Republican parties leave West Virginia and our country behind for partisan extremism while jeopardizing our democracy. Today, our national politics are broken and neither party is willing to compromise to find common ground. To stay true to myself and remain committed to put country before party, I have decided to register as an independent with no party affiliation and continue to fight for America’s sensible majority.”
Manchin’s announcement comes amid speculation that he may run for governor of West Virginia. Reports suggest that moderate Republicans, dissatisfied with their party’s nominee, Attorney General Patrick Morrisey, are encouraging Manchin to consider a gubernatorial bid. Although Manchin downplayed these rumors, he did not completely dismiss them, mentioning his long-time friendship with Democratic nominee Huntington Mayor Steve Williams.
Sources close to Manchin have indicated that at least 20 Republicans with financial resources have urged him to run for governor. This encouragement was reportedly amplified during an event at the Greenbrier resort, owned by the state’s current governor, Jim Justice, who has since switched to the Republican Party and is the GOP’s Senate nominee to replace Manchin.
Hoppy Kercheval, a prominent news anchor in West Virginia, noted the growing speculation about Manchin’s potential gubernatorial run, stating, “The talk about the possibility of Joe Manchin running for West Virginia governor again is real.”
Manchin’s shift to an independent status not only keeps his political options open but also extends the possibility of him running for governor or seeking re-election to the Senate. He has several weeks to make his final decision regarding his political future.