Special Poll
Sen. Joe Manchin (I-W.Va.) announced on Monday morning that he will not run for president in 2024. This statement came shortly after he seemed open to the idea.
The context: President Biden’s decision to withdraw from the race on Sunday has led to a search for new Democratic candidates. Vice President Kamala Harris has quickly gained party support.
Earlier this year, in February, when it looked like Democrats were sticking with a Biden-Harris ticket, Manchin had already said he would not enter the race. He had considered running as an independent.
In May, Manchin left the Democratic party and registered as an independent, criticizing both major parties for being too extreme.
Just before Biden announced his withdrawal, Manchin had suggested that Biden should step down.
Following Biden’s announcement, there was speculation that Manchin might re-register as a Democrat and run for president.
On early Monday morning, Manchin told CNN that people were encouraging him to run.
Later that same morning, Manchin confirmed to CBS News that he would not be a candidate for president.
When asked on Metro News Talkline why his stance seemed inconsistent, Manchin said he was open to anything that would help the country but had decided not to run. He mentioned that people had been urging him to consider it but reiterated that he had made his decision.