Sen. Joe Manchin Leaves Democratic Party, Registers as Independent

West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin has announced his departure from the Democratic Party and registered as an independent. Citing concerns over "partisan extremism" from both major political parties, Manchin emphasized his commitment to bipartisanship and representing what he calls America's "sensible majority." He has expressed his belief that the Democratic and Republican parties have abandoned West Virginia and the country, thus jeopardizing democracy.

This decision raises questions about Manchin's future political plans, including whether he will run for re-election in the Senate or for the governorship. Manchin did not specify if he would continue to caucus with Democrats in the Senate, where they currently hold a slim majority. His move comes amid pressure to run for his former position as governor, following Patrick Morrisey's narrow victory in the Republican gubernatorial primary. Manchin has previously stated he would not run for president but would focus on uniting the country.