Well, folks, it looks like Joe Manchin is back in the game, and this time, he’s going independent. The 78-year-old former West Virginia senator is launching a new effort, the Independent Leadership Council, to recruit and support independent candidates across the country. I almost spilled my coffee reading this one – Manchin, a Democrat-turned-independent, wants to shake things up in Washington. He’s got a point, though – with both parties being, well, a bit extreme, maybe it’s time for some fresh faces and new ideas.
Manchin told CNN that he’s not trying to start another party, but rather find people who can be committed to being independent and voting with their conscience. He’s got a few candidates in mind already, including California Rep. Kevin Kiley, who’s running for reelection as an independent, and Seth Bodnar, an independent candidate for Senate in Montana. It’s worth noting that Kiley is facing a tough reelection race, but he’s “very happy” to be working with Manchin.
Now, I’m not sure what’s more surprising – Manchin’s new venture or the fact that 45% of American adults identify as independents. I guess that’s what happens when you’ve got a system that’s as divided as ours. According to a Gallup poll, that’s a record high, and it’s no wonder why Manchin thinks this is the perfect time to launch his Independent Leadership Council.
Manchin’s disillusionment with the major parties is nothing new. He spent his final months in office as an independent after serving as a Democrat for decades. He’s concerned about the rise of democratic socialists and the extremes in both parties. He thinks that open primaries would address the broader issue and is working to support independent candidates who can bring people together.
The Manchins, including his daughter Heather, are working to support these independent candidates, and they think they can have an impact on the next presidential election. They’re not just talking the talk, either – they’re planning to campaign for these candidates, raise money, and help organize on the ground. It’s a big undertaking, but hey, someone’s got to try to shake things up in Washington.
In California, Kiley is seeking reelection as an independent, and he’s facing Democrat Richard Pan in November’s general election. In Montana, Bodnar is locked in a standoff with Democratic nominee Alani Bankhead, who’s resisting pressure to drop out. And in Alaska, independent Bill Hill is running in an all-party primary on August 18 for the seat currently held by Republican Rep. Nick Begich. It’s going to be an interesting election season, that’s for sure.
As I finish my coffee and wrap up this article, I’ve got to say – it’s about time someone tried to bring some sanity to Washington. Whether or not Manchin’s effort will be successful remains to be seen, but hey, it’s worth a shot. And who knows, maybe we’ll see a whole new crop of independent candidates who can actually get things done. After all, as Manchin said, “It doesn’t take too many to say, ‘C’mon, people, get your act together.'” Amen to that, Joe. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need a refill on my coffee – this independence thing is going to be a wild ride.
Armchair patriot. Believes in the free market, cold beer, and that there’s always a guy named George behind every CNN segment.
Former remote-throwing champion turned #1 couch commentator on liberal panic in the media. Born in Texas (or so his mug says), he earned a degree in Fake Newsology & Beer Philosophy from YouTube University.
