Joe Manchin Says He Will Not Run For Reelection

deadline.com:

Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) said that he will not seek reelection, putting an end to speculation about his plans for next year and adding to the uncertainty that Democrats will be able to retain control of the Senate. “I believe in my heart of hearts that I have accomplished what I set out to do for West Virginia,” Manchin said in a video statement posted on social media. “I have made one of the toughest decisions I have ever made in my life, and I have decided that I will not be running for reelection.” His exit from the race quickly raised speculation that he would mount a presidential bid via the group No Labels, which has been readying the possibility of backing a third party challenge next year.

That has raised big concerns among Democrats that such a bid would siphon votes from Joe Biden to the benefit of Donald Trump, should both win their party nominations. “We need to take back America and not let this divisive hatred further pull us apart,” Manchin said.

He added, “Public service has and continues to drive me every day. That is the vow I made to my father more than 40 years ago, and I intent to keep that vow until my dying day.” No Labels issued a statement praising Manchin.

They said that they will make a decision in early 2024 “about whether we will nominate a Unity presidential ticket and who will be on it.” Manchin faced a tough reelection battle in West Virginia, which has become more solidly Republican during his tenure.