MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – After months of contemplating a potential presidential bid, Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia made an announcement on Friday that he will not be running for president in 2024. His decision not to pursue a third-party run was made clear during a speech where he emphasized the need for a president who can unite the country.
Manchin, a Democrat, expressed that while a third-party candidacy could be an option in the future, the current political climate would make it very challenging. He also stated that he did not want to be a “deal-breaker” or a “spoiler” in the upcoming election, adding that he believes democracy is at stake.
Last November, 76-year-old Manchin declared that he would not seek re-election to his Senate seat, sparking speculation about a potential White House run as an independent or third-party candidate. However, Democrats were concerned that his candidacy could draw votes away from President Joe Biden and potentially benefit former President Donald Trump in the 2024 election.
Manchin revealed that he had a respectful conversation with President Biden before making his announcement. He also made it clear that while he has publicly entertained the idea of a White House bid, he is committed to endorsing a presidential candidate at a later time.
As a Democrat representing a red state, Manchin has been vocal in his criticism of both major parties and the political system, emphasizing that he believes change cannot solely come from Washington. He expressed his desire to try to fix the Democratic Party before considering any other course of action.