Joe Manchin, the US Senator who switched from Democrat to Independent earlier this year after 15 years in office, had some strong words for his former party on Sunday. In an interview with CNN, Manchin explained that he couldn’t relate to the Democratic Party anymore, calling it “toxic” and “maligned.”
He shared his frustration, saying the party had become too focused on controlling how people live their lives, rather than addressing basic needs like jobs and pay. He especially pointed the finger at progressives, blaming them for pushing social issues, like LGBTQ+ rights, to the forefront while neglecting the country’s financial problems.
Manchin also had a few choice words for both major political parties. He criticized Democrats for going too far with ideas like banning guns and Republicans for not taking a common-sense approach to the country’s mass shooting problem. He described both parties as being extreme on the issue, with neither offering a reasonable solution.
When asked about comments from Greg Casar, the incoming chair of the progressive wing in Congress, who suggested the party would have been more successful if it had embraced figures like Pramila Jayapal, Manchin didn’t hold back. He called the idea “completely insane.”
On the topic of the 2020 election, Manchin also reflected on Kamala Harris’s loss, suggesting that her struggle to find a moderate identity after her progressive run in 2019 hurt her chances. While he didn’t say who he voted for, Manchin made it clear that every American should want their president to succeed, regardless of party.
Looking ahead, Manchin proposed a new political force: a third party called the “American Party,” aimed at bringing together moderates from both sides. He believes the center could play a pivotal role in presidential elections, but only if there was a party that represented it effectively, rather than letting both major parties drift further apart.
Manchin also shared his thoughts on the state of Congress, criticizing the Republican-led House under Speaker Mike Johnson. He called it “the worst performing Congress in the history of our country,” blaming the party’s infighting for the lack of progress.
Finally, Manchin predicted that Donald Trump, with his newfound experience, would have a much clearer understanding of his role as president if he wins again in 2024. He believes that Trump’s time in office has given him the knowledge he needs to do the job better this time around.
In summary, Manchin’s interview was a candid take on the current state of politics, urging both sides to find common ground and do what’s best for the country, rather than sticking to extreme party lines.
