West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin (D) announced that he will not be running for re-election.
In a video statement, he said, “After months of deliberation and long conversations with my family, I believe in my heart of hearts that I have accomplished what I set out to do for West Virginia,” Manchin said. “I have made one of the toughest decisions of my life, and decided that I will not be running for re-election to United States Senate.”
“But what I will be doing is traveling the country and speaking out to see if there is an interest in creating a movement to mobilize the middle and bring Americans together,” he noted.
“To the West Virginians who have put their trust in me and fought side by side to make our state better, it has been my honor of my life to serve you, thank you.”
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
“Every incentive in Washington is designed to make our politics extreme,” Manchin added. “The growing divide between Democrats and Republicans is paralyzing Congress and worsening our nation’s problems.”
Former President Donald Trump responded to the announcement on Truth Social, writing, “Because I Endorsed Big Jim Justice of West Virginia for the U.S. Senate, and he has taken a commanding lead, Democrat Joe Manchin has decided not to seek re-election. Looking good for Big Jim!”
“Senator Joe Manchin and I have not always agreed on policy and politics, but we’re both lifelong West Virginians who love this state beyond belief, and I respect and thank him for his many years of public service,” West Virginia Governor Jim Justice (R) stated, according to The Hill.
