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AP Photo/Amanda Andrade-Rhoades
- Senator Joe Manchin expressed commendation for Kamala Harris’ campaign.
- “I’m genuinely surprised. She’s accomplished some positive actions,” he shared with The Times.
- Manchin endorsed Harris’ changed stance on fracking, a significant topic in many rural communities.
A Shift in Political Landscape: Joe Manchin’s Insights on Kamala Harris
This year, Senator Joe Manchin transitioned to an independent status after years of being regarded as one of the more moderate Democrats within the Senate. Known for his conservative perspectives, particularly among his party members, this shift reflects a broader evolution within his political approach.
Bipartisanship and Future Aspirations
Throughout his tenure, Manchin has often reminisced about the previously robust bipartisanship that characterized Senate operations. At one point, he even considered entering the presidential race—a move accompanied by his critiques of President Biden’s more progressive policies. However, following Biden’s withdrawal from seeking reelection last month as a Democratic candidate, speculation about a potential run by Manchin briefly gained traction.
Kamala Harris Gains Momentum
Quickly after President Biden withdrew from consideration, Vice President Kamala Harris garnered strong backing from Democratic leadership. Consequently, this support led to an abrupt halt in any campaign plans that might have been conceived by Manchin.
In less than a week since her candidacy was announced with increased vigor and financial backing pouring into her campaign coffers—and enthusiasm surging—Harris has altered the trajectory of political discourse within her party dramatically.
Praising Collaboration and Energy in Campaigning
In a recent interview with The New York Times regarding Harris’ performance thus far as the presumptive nominee for 2024 elections, Manchin offered notable praise:
“I’ve been genuinely surprised at how adept she is; she’s achieved meaningful progress,” he commented on her early initiatives. Their previous collaboration on the Intelligence Committee revealed their working relationship during their time together prior to Harris’ election as Vice President: “We had common ground and worked efficiently side-by-side.” He acknowledged her intelligence and capability warmly.
A Dynamic Candidate Redefining Strategies
Citing changes in hHer campaign strategy concerning fracking—a contentious issue across rural America—Manchin noted how these adaptations have perhaps reinvigorated voter interest. While initially opposing fracking during her 2020 presidential bid due to environmental concerns,Harris recently declared that she would no longer back a prohibition on this method of extraction…
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“Now stepping into this influential role amid global matters emphasizes our energy priorities going forward; I’m heartened by such foresight,” added Manchin enthusiastically regarding Harris’ revised approach towards energy policy matters—including fracking—reflecting broader shifts needed amid environmental debates today.
The Path Ahead: No Reelection Bid for 2024
Serving since 2010 , SenatorMan chin confirmed at onset November —he will not pursue another term impacting upcoming electoral considerations–which will reshape West Virginia’s representation moving forward .
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