Sen. Joe Manchin, who has long been perceived as a Republican in Democratic clothing, finally made his true political alignment official by registering as an independent, the West Virginia senator announced on Friday.
Manchin, 76, declared his new independent status at the West Virginia State Capitol, accusing both the Democratic and Republican parties of “partisan extremism.” Despite this move, Manchin will continue to caucus with Senate Democrats, according to an aide.
The timing of Manchin’s announcement is noteworthy, coming just after his declaration in November that he won’t seek reelection to the Senate. He has also ruled out a presidential run.
Although he has pushed back against the idea of running for governor, his departure from the Democratic Party in his heavily Republican state could pave the way for a gubernatorial bid. West Virginia state law requires an independent candidate to register as such 60 days before the August 1 filing deadline, or June 2. Manchin previously served as governor of West Virginia from 2005-2010.
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“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,” Manchin said in a statement Friday. “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.”
“However, since becoming a United States Senator in 2010, I have seen both the Democrat and Republican parties leave West Virginia and our country behind for partisan extremism while jeopardizing our democracy,” he continued. “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 also coincides with the day after former President Donald Trump was convicted of 34 felony counts of falsifying business records.
