Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia announced Friday he has switched his registration to independent, raising questions about his political plans since the move could help his chances should he seek elected office again in a state that has turned heavily Republican.

Manchin, 76, has often been at odds with the Democratic Party and an obstacle to many of President Joe Biden’s legislative priorities. But he played a central role in helping Biden get a landmark climate change and health care bill over the finish line in 2022.

  • Admiral Patrick@dubvee.org
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    6 months ago

    He’s not running for Senate again. I don’t know what, if any, plans he has after his term is up. He made statements about running for president as independent, but I don’t think that’s happening either. I just figure this last minute switch is a way to cash out on his way out.

    • pelespiritOPM
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      6 months ago

      That’s a good point and you’re probably right. Those yachts don’t pilot themselves.

      • Admiral Patrick@dubvee.org
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        6 months ago

        Houseboat, lol, but yeah, exactly.

        Edit: Not being pedantic with the houseboat link. The linked article is just about how his houseboat is too “homely” to be considered a yacht. 😆

        • pelespiritOPM
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          6 months ago

          I figured, I remember the kayakers talking to him about it. Looked pretty nice to me. Hey Manchin, just because you live on it sometimes, doesn’t make it a houseboat. Also, houseboats cost around 1 million around here, soooo not really making your case there.