Senator Manchin Switches to Independent

Conservative Democrat to Retire at End of Term

Manchin has not ruled out a presidential bid as an independent.

Senator Joe Manchin III, the conservative West Virginia Democrat who has said he will retire at the end of his term, switched his party affiliation to independent on Friday. Manchin, who has been a vocal critic of President Biden's agenda, said in a statement that he is "deeply concerned" about the direction of the Democratic Party.

Manchin's decision to leave the Democratic Party is a significant blow to the party's hopes of holding onto the Senate in the 2024 election. Manchin is one of the most popular politicians in West Virginia, and his departure from the party could make it difficult for the Democrats to win the state in the upcoming election.

Manchin's switch to independent also raises the possibility that he could run for president as an independent in 2024. Manchin has not ruled out a presidential bid, and he has said that he would consider running if he believes he can win.