West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin announced on Friday that he is leaving the Democratic Party and registering as an independent, raising speculation about his future political plans. Manchin, who has been a Democrat throughout his decadeslong political career, stated that his decision is driven by a commitment to put the country before party affiliations.
“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 said in a statement. This move was first reported by West Virginia radio host Hoppy Kercheval. Despite the party change, Manchin will continue to caucus with Senate Democrats, his office confirmed.
Manchin’s decision reopens questions about his political future, especially since he announced last November that he would not seek a third Senate term in 2024. With the deadline for independent candidates to register for office in West Virginia set for August 1, speculation is mounting over whether Manchin might run for another Senate term or for governor this fall. Manchin, 76, has a notable political history, having served as West Virginia’s governor from 2005 to 2010 before winning a special election to the Senate seat vacated by the death of Democrat Robert Byrd. He subsequently secured full Senate terms in 2012 and 2018.
