Sen. Joe Manchin leaving Democratic Party

SOURCE www.axios.com
Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia officially left the Democratic Party and registered as an independent, potentially giving him the flexibility to run for Senate or West Virginia governor as an independent.

Key Points

  • Manchin accuses both parties of prioritizing partisan extremism
  • Manchin will continue caucusing with Senate Democrats

Pros

  • Flexibility to run for Senate or West Virginia governor as an independent
  • Ability to distance himself from partisan extremism

Cons

  • Potential backlash from both Democratic and Republican parties
  • Uncertainty about future political aspirations