“The US Needs a Viable Third Party” – People Are Worried That Manchin Is Plotting To Undermine Dems in 2024

Gabriel RomanNov 27, 2023

Minute Read

Senator Joe Manchin is a key figure in the current Senate. However, he has hinted at a possible run for the presidency. This comes during a national debate, where over half of voters are seeking fresh faces in the upcoming presidential election.

Manchin’s Senate Tenure and White House Aspirations

Manchin announced he won’t seek re-election for his U.S. Senate seat in 2024. This has ignited speculation about his political ambitions. Having played a pivotal role in the Senate, often casting the deciding vote, Manchin’s departure from the Senate hints at possible White House aspirations. This has stirred discussions in political circles.

The Poll Reflecting Public Desire for New Candidates

A recent Quinnipiac University poll revealed that many members of the public want new entrants in the presidential race. 52% of voters expressed interest in additional candidates. This shows the potential opportunity for someone like Manchin, who is contemplating a presidential bid amid a political landscape craving change.

Manchin’s Critique of the Political Climate

Editorial credit: Andrew Cline/Shutterstock.

In a candid interview with John Catsimatidis on WABC, Senator Manchin expressed his disillusionment with the current political climate. He criticized the divisive nature of politics, suggesting that the system profits from division. He claims that his efforts to fix it from within have been fruitless, leading him to consider mobilizing the ‘radical middle.’

Concerns Over Political Extremism

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Manchin voiced his grave concerns over what he perceives as escalating political extremism. He attributed this to the influence of figures like Donald Trump and the leftward shift of Joe Biden. He fears this polarization is leading to a ‘visceral hatred’ damaging American politics’ fabric.

Manchin’s Presidential Considerations Confirmed

Further fueling presidential speculations, Manchin confirmed to NBC’s Kristin Welker that he is “absolutely” considering a presidential run. He framed this consideration as a duty. He suggested that every capable American should contemplate such a move if it could contribute to the nation’s betterment.

The Role of the ‘No Labels’ Movement

Manchin has supported the ‘No Labels’ movement, an initiative advocating bipartisan solutions. This group has indicated its readiness to support a presidential candidate if the 2024 election becomes a contest between Biden and Trump. This has positioned Manchin as a potential beneficiary of their support.

Manchin’s Stance on Being a ‘Spoiler’ Candidate

Addressing concerns that his candidacy could act as a spoiler in the election, Manchin asserted that his intention in any race is to win, not to spoil. This statement aims to dispel any notions that his potential presidential bid would merely be a strategic move to influence the election’s outcome. Instead, he appears to be a genuine presidential candidate.

The Challenge of Third-Party Candidacies

The possibility of a third-party candidacy, such as one by Manchin. This is especially true when considering many states’ strict ballot access guidelines. These regulations could pose significant obstacles to last-minute presidential bids, even for well-funded movements like ‘No Labels.’

Manchin’s Final Service to Conservatives

Some users are skeptical about the discourse around Senator Manchin’s potential run for president. Critics argue, “Manchin is doing his final service to conservatives by undermining the Dems just one more time,” labeling him as “a piece of human debris.” This perspective implies that Manchin’s entry might be a strategic move to fragment the Democratic vote.

Common Ground with Trump

Other users drew a parallel between Manchin and Trump. One user said, “One thing that Manchin and Trump have in common is that they both have the stones to stand up for what they believe in.” While acknowledging their distinct political stances, this comparison shows a shared characteristic of unwavering firmness.

The Public’s Presidential Preference

However, some users surprisingly preferred Manchin over Trump and Biden. As one comment reflects, “If the choice comes down to Trump, Biden, or Manchin, I’d have to go with Manchin.” This preference suggests a broader public wish to find alternatives to traditional political figures.

Calls for Manchin’s Retirement

In contrast, some users called for Manchin’s retirement, citing concerns over his prolonged political tenure. A critic remarks, “This guy should have gone home… ages ago!” This opinion stems from a belief that Manchin may hinder progress more than a contributor. It suggests that his time in the political spotlight has outlived its usefulness.

The Need for a Viable Third-Party

The conversation about Manchin’s potential candidacy brings to light the broader issue of the need for a viable third party in American politics. Critics argue that a third party should represent more than just a refuge for those disillusioned with the major parties. As one critic puts it, “The US needs a viable third party that doesn’t consist of dropouts from the other two failed parties!”

Manchin as a Problematic Representative

Some users question Manchin’s suitability as a representative. Opponents argue, “Manchin is everything a representee shouldn’t be,” pointing to his resistance to progressive reforms and alignment with specific industries. They challenged the idea of Manchin as a presidential candidate by scrutinizing his political track record.

Manchin’s Influence on Legislative Decisions

Manchin’s role in the Senate has been notably influential, often determining the fate of significant legislation. His position as a centrist Democrat in an evenly split Senate has placed him at the heart of many pivotal decisions. Critics and supporters acknowledge his impact, with some viewing him as a mediator while others see him as an obstacle.

Manchin’s Stance on Environmental Policies

Manchin’s approach to environmental policies has been a subject of intense debate. As a senator from a coal-producing state, his decisions often reflect a balance between environmental concerns and the economic interests of his constituents. This balancing act has led to environmental criticism for prioritizing industry over ecological sustainability.

The Impact of Manchin’s Decisions on Party Dynamics

Manchin’s willingness to break ranks on key issues has sometimes frustrated party leadership and progressive members. This behavior has sparked discussions about party unity and the challenges of maintaining a cohesive stance within a diverse political group. Manchin’s actions show the complexities of intra-party relationships during political polarization.

Manchin and the Future of Bipartisanship

In a political climate increasingly marked by partisanship, Manchin’s potential presidential candidacy raises questions about the future of bipartisan collaboration. His centrist views and willingness to engage across party lines suggest a different approach to governance. This could either bridge the partisan divide or further complicate the political landscape.