Joe Manchin Leaves Democratic Party, Registers as Independent
Senator Cites Disillusionment with Partisanship
West Virginia Lawmaker Ends 40-Year Affiliation with Democrats
Joe Manchin, the longtime Democratic senator from West Virginia, has announced that he has left the party and registered as an independent. Manchin made the announcement in a letter to Democratic Party leaders, citing disillusionment with the increasing partisanship in Washington, especially within the Democratic party.
"I have come to the conclusion that I can no longer be a member of the Democratic Party," Manchin wrote. "The Democratic Party of today is no longer the party of my father, A. James Manchin, or the party of West Virginia values."
Manchin's decision comes as a surprise to many, as he has been a staunch Democrat for decades. He has been a loyal supporter of President Joe Biden and has been instrumental in passing key legislation, such as the Inflation Reduction Act.
Manchin's departure from the Democratic Party is likely to have significant implications for the party's control of the Senate. The Democrats currently hold a slim 51-49 majority, and Manchin's decision to become an independent leaves them with a 50-49 balance. This could make it more difficult for the Democrats to pass legislation, especially if Manchin votes with Republicans.
Manchin's announcement has also sparked speculation about his future political ambitions. He has been mentioned as a potential presidential candidate in 2024, and his decision to become an independent could be seen as a step in that direction.
In a statement, President Biden said he was "saddened" by Manchin's decision but that he respected his decision. "Joe Manchin has been a friend of mine for many years, and I know he will continue to serve the people of West Virginia with the same integrity and commitment that he has always shown," Biden said.
Comments