Joe Manchin Declares Independence

Longtime Democrat Switches to Independent

May 31, 2024 | Updated 3:49 PM

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the political establishment, Senator Joe Manchin III has announced that he is registering as an independent. Manchin, a conservative West Virginia Democrat who has been a vocal critic of both parties, has said he will retire at the end of his current term.

Manchin's decision is a major blow to the Democratic Party, which has been struggling to hold onto its narrow majority in the Senate. Manchin has been a key vote for the Democrats on a number of crucial issues, including the passage of the Affordable Care Act and the confirmation of Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch. His departure from the party will likely make it more difficult for the Democrats to pass legislation in the future.