Staff Reports
The Senate is losing one of its most colorful characters as Sen. Joe Manchin, a moderate Democrat from West Virginia, announced that he will not seek reelection. While some speculated that he might set his sights on the White House, it seems like the ship has sailed on that dream. Manchin is now talking about traveling the country and urging people to “mobilize the middle” and come together.
Manchin passes on Senate re-election bid, setting up likely Republican gain https://t.co/WRXMqyIPmg
— New York Post (@nypost) November 10, 2023
But let’s be real, folks. Manchin has been like that one friend who always ditches the group plan at the last minute, leaving everyone in the lurch. He’s been a thorn in the side of progressives by torpedoing major Democratic initiatives, including President Biden’s Build Back Better agenda. It’s like he’s been playing a game of “will he, won’t he” with his fellow Democrats, and now he’s finally dropping out.
Republicans are practically doing cartwheels at the thought of regaining the Senate majority in 2024, and with Manchin out of the picture, their odds just got a whole lot better. Democrats are in a tough spot, having to defend a whopping 23 seats this cycle, while Republicans only have to worry about 11. It’s like trying to protect a whole flock of chickens from a pack of hungry foxes.
And let’s not forget about Manchin’s unconventional living situation — he actually resides on a boat outside of DC. Maybe he’s been feeling a little sea-sick from all the political maneuvering. One can only imagine the salty sea air inspiring him to quote President Kennedy and wax poetic about serving the people. But it’s not all smooth sailing for old Joe, as he reminisces about his dad warning him to stay out of politics. Looks like the apple fell far from the tree on that one.
In the end, Manchin is trying to spin his decision as a noble call for bipartisanship and putting country over party. But let’s face it, folks. His time in the Senate has been a wild ride, and it’s no surprise that he’s finally had enough. Goodbye, Joe. We’ll miss the drama.
