(Luis Cornelio, Headline USA) Sen. Joe Manchin, I-W.Va., unburdened by what had been President Joe Biden’s canceled re-election bid, could soon enter the race for the Democratic nomination for president.
Manchin adviser Jonathan Kott confirmed the rumors in Sunday remarks to several outlets.
Manchin could pose a significant threat to Kamala Harris, the unpopular vice president now seeking the nomination following Biden’s humiliating ouster by his party.
Before entering the race, Manchin would need to re-register as a Democrat after registering as an independent in May 2024.
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
The party switch came after he announced his intent not to run for re-election, with polls suggesting that the seat is leaning back to the Republican Party.
He has criticized the Democratic Party for its radicalism and has been rumored as a potential presidential candidate but previously shied away from running over concerns he could be a “spoiler” for Democrats.
“I will not be seeking a third party run,” Manchin announces.
“I am not going to be a deal breaker if you will a spoiler,” he adds. pic.twitter.com/XZUwoF4sdM
— Shawna Mizelle (@shawnamizelle) February 16, 2024
“I just don’t think it’s the right time. Democracy is at stake right now,” Manchin said at the time.
On Sunday, Manchin joined other Democrats in calling on Biden to step down from the ticket due to the president’s cognitive decline and inability to defeat Trump.
“I came to the decision with a heavy heart that I think it’s time to pass the torch to a new generation,” Manchin told CNN’s Jake Tapper on State of the Union.
Sources close to @Sen_JoeManchin tell @jaketapper that Manchin is considering re-registering as a Democrat to run for president. Earlier today on @CNNSotu, Sen. Manchin told Jake he would not run if Biden dropped out because "I want to support a new generation." pic.twitter.com/9Uxxn2rUmB
— State of the Union (@CNNSOTU) July 21, 2024
Manchin would be the second individual to challenge Harris, with Marianne Williamson already announcing her plan to seek the Democratic nomination.
“I look forward to taking my message to the American people, and convincing Democratic delegates, that I am the best candidate to take us to victory in November,” Williamson tweeted.
I want to take a moment to express my gratitude and respect to President Biden. He reached what had to have been an extremely difficult decision, but he did what is best for his party and his country. Clearly in his heart he shares the goal of the many millions of Americans who…
— Marianne Williamson (@marwilliamson) July 21, 2024
