Manchin privately meets Clinton, considers challenging Biden and leaving Democrats.
Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) Weighs Options for Political Future
Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) finds himself at a crossroads as he contemplates his political future. With a deadline approaching to either run for reelection in 2024 or pursue a presidential bid, Manchin has been engaging in discussions with his family and seeking advice from former President Bill Clinton.
Over Labor Day weekend, the Washington Post revealed that the 76-year-old senator held several meetings with his family in the Hamptons, including a private sit-down with Clinton.
Three Options on the Table
According to reports, there are three potential paths for the centrist senator. He could launch a reelection campaign in West Virginia as an independent, join No Labels and run for president on a third-party ticket, or retire from politics altogether.
One thing is certain: if Manchin decides to remain in politics, he is likely to distance himself from the Democratic Party.
While Democratic donors are urging him to seek reelection in West Virginia, his daughter, former pharmaceutical CEO Heather Bresch, is advocating for a presidential run through No Labels.
Manchin has been a vocal supporter of the organization and its mission. In fact, he recently headlined a town hall for No Labels in New Hampshire alongside former Utah Republican Gov. Jon Huntsman.
Clinton’s Advice
Interestingly, Clinton reportedly advised Manchin against running for president as a third-party candidate. The former president believes such a move would give former President Donald Trump an advantage in the 2024 election.
The meeting with Clinton was unplanned, with Manchin reaching out to him after learning of his presence in the area. It is said that the White House encouraged Clinton to discuss the matter with Manchin, as the senator has posed challenges to President Joe Biden’s legislative agenda.
Pressure and Decision Timeline
Manchin’s stance has caused frustration among Senate Democrats, but they recognize the importance of retaining his support to maintain their advantage in the Senate. Despite his reluctance to announce a reelection campaign, Democratic groups have already started running ads in West Virginia to rally support for him.
If Manchin intends to run for reelection, he must inform the state in January. He has committed to making a decision by the end of 2023.
Considering the Political Landscape
Manchin’s contemplation of a presidential run coincides with the likely nominations of Trump and Biden by the Republican and Democratic parties, respectively. After the No Labels town hall, Manchin expressed his belief that Biden had been “pushed too far left.”
“We’re here to make sure that the American people have an option, and the option is: Can you move the political parties off their respective sides?” he stated during the summer event. “They’ve gone too far right and too far left.”
No Labels has stated that it will only present a presidential ticket “if both major parties nominate candidates that the vast majority of Americans don’t want.” The party has already gained ballot access in at least 10 states.
The Washington Examiner was unable to reach Manchin for comment.
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