West Virginia Sen. Joe Manchin, a long time Democrat, announced Friday he is leaving the party and is registering as an independent.
“Our national politics are broken and neither party is willing to compromise to find common ground,” Manchin said in a statement. “To stay true to myself and remain committed to put country before party, I have decided to register as an independent with no party affiliation and continue to fight for America’s sensible majority.”
The move raises more questions about his political future, whether he may run for another Senate term or for governor this fall.
The news was first reported by West Virginia radio host Hoppy Kercheval.
Manchin announced last November he would not seek a third term in 2024, speculating a third party run for president.
The 76-year-old was West Virginia governor from 2005 to 2010 before he on a full Senate term in 2012 and a second term in 2018.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
