(TheLastPatriotNews.com) – Rightfully stressing his role in putting pressure on Democrats, Donald Trump insists he just brought about a vital new development on the left – namely, moderate Democrat US Senator Joe Manchin’s decision not to run for reelection.
In a video address on Thursday (see below), Manchin (D-WV), a US senator since 2010 who is presently completing his third term, announced he wouldn’t vie for reelection next year.
The moderate Democrat, who has been restraining progressivist policies in Congress in the past few years, also said he explore possibilities about creating a centrist movement.
In a Truth Social post later on Thursday, 2024 GOP nomination frontrunner Donald Trump publicly claimed responsibility for Senator Joe Manchin’s decision not to pursue reelection in 2024.
He attributed Manchin’s withdrawal to his endorsement of West Virginia Governor Jim Justice for the US Senate.
Manchin described it as “one of the toughest decisions of my life.” In contrast, Trump characterized it as a confrontation with reality.
“Because I Endorsed Big Jim Justice of West Virginia for the US Senate, and he has taken a commanding lead, Democrat Joe Manchin has decided not to seek reelection. Looking good for Big Jim!” Trump wrote.
This statement came in the context of a poll by Emerson College last month, which indicated Justice leading Manchin with 41% to 28%, Newsmax notes in a report.
Manchin had been contemplating retirement for several months, with Newsmax reporting on Sunday that he was expected to announce stepping down.
“After months of deliberation and long conversations with my family, I believe in my heart of hearts that I have accomplished what I set out to do for West Virginia. I have made one of the toughest decisions of my life and decided that I will not be running for reelection to the United States Senate,” the West Virginia senator said.
“But what I will be doing is traveling the country and speaking out to see if there is an interest in creating a movement to mobilize the middle and bring Americans together,” Manchin added.
The Cook Political Report now categorizes the West Virginia Senate seat as “solid Republican,” suggesting a probable gain for the GOP in the Senate in the 2024 elections.
“Ultimately, Manchin may have already been a dead man walking, but his exit makes it official,” Cook Political Report remarked.
To the West Virginians who have put their trust in me and fought side by side to make our state better – it has been an honor of my life to serve you. Thank you. My statement on my political future: pic.twitter.com/dz8JuXAyTL
— Senator Joe Manchin (@Sen_JoeManchin) November 9, 2023
