Uncertain future looms as Joe Manchin’s bipartisanship is evaluated.
Sen. Joe Manchin: The Most Bipartisan Senator
Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) is widely regarded as the most bipartisan senator, according to a congressional scorecard. Despite facing an uncertain political future with a tough Senate challenger in 2024, Manchin continues to prioritize working across party lines.
On the Common Ground Scorecard, Manchin holds the top spot among senators and ranks 15th overall in Congress. Reps. Don Bacon (R-NE) and Dean Phillips (D-MN) share the number one position for the entire Congress. Notably, Manchin is followed closely by Sens. Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ), and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) on the Senate list.
A Champion of Bipartisanship
Sen. Manchin has consistently received praise for his bipartisan record, earning him the top spot on various lists of bipartisan members of Congress for several years. He recently led a bipartisan delegation to Ukraine and Poland, further demonstrating his commitment to working across party lines.
While Manchin has hinted at the possibility of leaving the Democratic Party, he clarified that he would choose to be an independent rather than switching to the Republican Party. In an interview with West Virginia radio host Hoppy Kercheval, he expressed his desire to have a truly independent voice, highlighting the negative perception of both the Democratic and Republican brands.
Future Plans and Political Ambitions
As for the upcoming 2024 election cycle, Manchin has not disclosed his plans. He has not ruled out the possibility of another Senate bid against popular Gov. Jim Justice (R-WV) or even a long-shot bid for the White House as part of the No Labels party. The No Labels party aims to unite liberals and conservatives in a joint effort for the Oval Office.
Clashes with President Biden and the Inflation Reduction Act
Recently, Sen. Manchin has found himself at odds with President Joe Biden and his administration over the Inflation Reduction Act, a legislation he helped create. While celebrating its one-year anniversary, Manchin has criticized the more progressive aspects of the wide-ranging climate law. He has also opposed the president’s ”Build Back Better” plan and consistently stood against efforts to eliminate the filibuster.
Challenging Political Landscape
Sen. Manchin has held his position in the Senate since 2010, successfully defeating multiple Republican challengers. However, West Virginia has become increasingly conservative over the years. Republican strategists view the state as a solid opportunity for a pickup in this cycle, making Manchin’s re-election bid a formidable challenge in a state that former President Donald Trump won with 68% of the vote in 2016.
Joining the Ranks of Independents
If Manchin were to become an independent, he would join the likes of Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, who announced her departure from the Democratic Party in December 2022. Additionally, Sens. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Angus King (I-ME), who caucus with Democrats, also identify as independents.
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