In a startling statement, Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) warned that a return of former President Donald Trump to the White House could pose a significant risk to the democratic fabric of the United States.
What Happened: As per a Wednesday report by The Associated Press, Manchin, who recently withdrew from the 2024 reelection race, articulated his apprehensions in a press call with journalists. This development comes against the backdrop of rumors that Manchin might be considering a third-party presidential run.
Manchin said another Trump term would be “dangerous.” He said, “You can't have this visceral hatred spewing out of every time you give a speech, denigrating Americans.”
A firm believer in bipartisanship, Manchin decried the existing two-party system, blaming it for the polarized state of the nation. He reserved his most stringent criticism for Trump, claiming that his re-election could prove detrimental for the country.
"These parties have taken over to where they weaponized us against each other," said Manchin. "And that's wrong."
Besides warning against a possible Trump return, Manchin also expressed dissatisfaction with President Joe Biden, accusing him of swaying too far left during his tenure.
Following his decision not to run for another term, speculation is mounting over Manchin’s possible presidential run under the banner of No Labels, a group advocating bipartisan politics and problem-solving.
Manchin also pledged to travel nationwide to explore interest in a moderate political movement.
Why It Matters: Manchin’s decision to bow out of the 2024 Senate race was unexpectedly early, stirring speculation about the West Virginia senator’s political future. This follows his hint at a potential third-party presidential campaign during a town hall meeting hosted by No Labels earlier this year.
Known for his centrist stance, Manchin has often voiced his concerns over the deepening partisan divide in Washington D.C. His potential candidacy could signal a shift towards bipartisanship and problem-solving in American politics.
Photo Courtesy Rachael Warriner On Shutterstock.com
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