West Virginia’s Sen. Joe Manchin’s announcement that he will not be running for re-election in 2024 has caused yet another headache for Democrats. Manchin, who has become one of the most influential and powerful moderates in the Senate, is seen as a key part of the Democrat’s goal to hold onto its slim majority. The Senator’s retirement adds to the Senate landscape as Democrats look to the mid-term elections which are in 2022.
Manchin has been known for bucking his party’s leaders on key issues, and his leaving of the Senate will mean one less swing vote for the Democrats. Both Democratic and Republican committees are already gearing up for an intense race to take Manchin’s seat in 2024. This race will be seen as a major factor in determining control of the Senate.
The news of Manchin’s retirement also presents key questions about leadership for the Democrats in the Senate. With Manchin off the scene in 2024, the Democratic Party may have to find someone else to fill his influential role. This could force Democrats to reshape their strategy to win back or maintain their majority.
Manchin’s retirement is one that has many implications for the future of the Senate and the Democratic Party. While the years ahead are uncertain, it seems certain that the battle to take Manchin’s seat in 2024 will be a hard fought one.
