Sen. Joe Manchin considers independent 2024 run, warns party system could be nation's 'downfall' [View all]

[Omaha Steve]

https://apnews.com/article/joe-manchin-west-virginia-independent-no-labels-1622326ec6890c5e33dbd30327d51f85

By LEAH WILLINGHAM
Updated 11:10 PM CDT, October 13, 2023

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) — Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia has benefited from waiting to reveal where he stands as the swing vote in a chamber closely divided between Democrats and Republicans.

He’s taken the same approach when it comes to the next phase of his political career: The moderate Democrat has teased possible retirement, a run for reelection to the Senate or even a presidential campaign in 2024 — possibly as an independent candidate.

During a multi-day trip to West Virginia’s capital this week, the 76-year-old expressed growing frustration with the polarized U.S. two-party system.

“I’m having a hard time — I really am,” he said while touring a Charleston metal stamping plant. “The two-party system, unless it changes, will be the downfall of our country.”

FULL story at link above.