Joe Manchin Mulls 2024 White House Bid, Sparking Concerns of Democratic Infighting
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Senator Joe Manchin |
West Virginia Senator Considers Third-Party Run, Igniting Worries Over Potential Impact on Biden's Reelection and Democrats' Senate Majority
In the wake of Joe Manchin's contemplation of a 2024 White House bid, Democrats are grappling with concerns over potential repercussions on both President Joe Biden's reelection prospects and the party's Senate majority.
At a recent event sponsored by the centrist group No Labels in New Hampshire, Manchin asserted that he would never run merely to sabotage Biden's chances or boost Donald Trump. Emphasizing his track record of running to win, the West Virginia senator left the door open to a presidential run, stating confidently, "If I get in a race, I'm gonna win."
However, inside the Beltway, fears are growing that Manchin's candidacy could not only harm Biden's reelection but also put Democrats' control of the Senate at risk. Manchin's victory in West Virginia, a state that overwhelmingly supported Trump in the 2020 election, has led many to view him as the Democrats' best hope to retain the seat. Some, like Matt Bennett of the moderate think tank Third Way, are urging Manchin to run for reelection to the Senate instead, as they believe his chances of securing the White House are slim.
Manchin's potential presidential run might be driven by West Virginia's rightward shift, which could pose a challenge in his Senate reelection bid against the state's popular Republican-turned-independent governor, Jim Justice.
Meanwhile, in Arizona, attention is also turning to Democratic-turned-independent Senator Kyrsten Sinema. With her future political plans still undisclosed, there is concern among Democrats that Sinema's potential run for reelection could split the vote and jeopardize the party's chances of holding the Senate seat. Sinema's popularity has dipped significantly, and recent polls suggest she could face tough competition from Democratic Arizona congressman Ruben Gallego.
No Labels, the centrist group contemplating a third-party presidential bid, has faced criticism over the potential impact of such a campaign. While they claim not to spoil the election for either side, some fear that a third-party candidate could inadvertently bolster Trump's chances. Recent polling indicates that in a three-candidate contest, Trump would have an advantage, gaining 40% of the vote to Biden's 39%, with the third candidate securing 21%.
As Democrats grapple with these potential challenges, all eyes are on Manchin and Sinema as they remain undecided on their political futures. With the 2024 elections on the horizon, the party is keenly aware of the importance of presenting a united front and avoiding internal strife that could benefit their opponents.
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