Senator Joe Manchin Leaves Democratic Party, Registers as Independent

Conservative Democrat Cites Nation's Downfall in Party System

Manchin Considers Independent Run in 2024

In a surprising move that has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, Senator Joe Manchin III, the conservative West Virginia Democrat who has long caucused with Republicans, announced on Friday that he is leaving the party and registering as an independent.

Manchin, who has spent his entire decades-long political career as a Democrat, said Friday that he is leaving the party due to concerns about the direction it is taking.

"I have come to the conclusion that the Democratic Party of today is no longer the party I joined decades ago," Manchin said in a statement. "I have tried to work within the system to improve our country, but I have come to the realization that this is no longer possible."

Manchin's departure from the Democratic Party is a major blow to the party, which has already been facing a dwindling presence in the Senate. It also raises questions about the future of the party and its ability to maintain its centrist wing.

Manchin, who has been a thorn in the side of the Biden administration, has not ruled out the possibility of running for president in 2024 as an independent. He said Friday that he is "absolutely" considering a run but that he has not made a final decision.