(TruthAndLiberty.com) – West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin, known for his conservative stance within the Democratic Party, declared on Friday that he has officially registered as an independent. Announcing his decision on the social platform X, Manchin expressed his intention to foster national unity, stating, “My commitment to do everything I can to bring our country together has led me to register as an independent with no party affiliation.”
Manchin, who has served in the Senate since 2010, previously held the position of governor of West Virginia from 2005 to 2010. He announced last November that he would not seek reelection this year. Reflecting on his political career, Manchin emphasized his dedication to bipartisan cooperation and unity, saying, “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.”
Additionally, Manchin dismissed speculation about a potential gubernatorial bid this cycle, affirming on Wednesday that he would not seek the governorship again. His decision is rooted in his critique of the current partisan landscape, which he believes is threatening American democracy due to a lack of willingness to compromise.
In his commitment to placing country over party, Manchin explained, “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.”
While Manchin has not detailed his post-Senate career plans, he mentioned in March that it was unlikely he would run for Senate again. He had previously considered a third-party presidential run but recently assured his constituents that his focus would be on supporting a candidate who could unite the nation.
Manchin, 76, described his decision not to seek Senate reelection as “one of the toughest decisions of my life.” He also noted his endorsement of Democrat Steve Williams in the state’s gubernatorial race, praising Williams’ dedication and longstanding friendship.
The recent GOP gubernatorial primary saw Moore Capito, son of Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), lose to West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey, setting the stage for the upcoming electoral contest in which Manchin has chosen his side.
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