Senator Joe Manchin has privately expressed his readiness to run for president, given the right circumstances. The West Virginia Democrat has hinted that a health scare for President Joe Biden or a conviction for former President Donald Trump could pave the way for his independent candidacy.
During public appearances in New Hampshire, South Carolina, and Georgia, Manchin has positioned himself as a national figurehead for the “fiscally responsible and socially compassionate” middle ground, akin to Senator Bernie Sanders’ role for the progressive left.
Manchin’s potential run would likely utilize state ballot lines secured by No Labels, a bipartisan group advocating for political unity. However, the group’s internal turmoil and uncertainty about its path forward have cast doubts on its mid-March deadline to decide on backing a “unity ticket.”
Meanwhile, Manchin’s repeated disruptions of Biden’s agenda have led to a strained relationship with the president and his top aides. They hope Manchin will decide against an independent run, fearing the potential fallout of a Democratic senator publicly criticizing Biden’s left-leaning policies.
Manchin has expressed a desire to meet with Biden to discuss changes in the president’s campaign strategy, such as focusing more on fiscal responsibility and energy security rather than climate change. Some in Biden’s circle agree with Manchin’s suggestions but wish he would voice them more discreetly.
Despite his criticisms, Manchin has praised Biden as a “good, decent man” but expressed concern about the influence of “far, far-left liberals” in the White House. He also voiced his worries about the possibility of Trump returning to the presidency, citing it as a concern for all Americans.
Manchin’s potential presidential run has been met with skepticism, but insiders say his nationwide travels suggest he is serious this time. However, his relationship with No Labels, a group he co-founded in 2011, has become strained, with Manchin now referring to it dismissively as “a ballot access organization.”
Amid the uncertainty, No Labels officials remain optimistic about their plans, believing their popularity will increase as more Americans grapple with the prospect of a Trump-Biden rematch. However, the group’s lack of transparency and organization has led to frustration among its members and donors, with two filing a lawsuit against No Labels last week.
Manchin’s team has not commissioned an internal poll, believing it would only highlight the uphill battle of a presidential run. However, Manchin remains confident in his appeal to Americans, citing his moderate stance on divisive issues like abortion.
As Manchin continues his travels and interactions with the public, the question remains whether the political middle ground is ready for a figurehead like him. Only time will tell if Manchin’s potential presidential run will materialize into a viable campaign.