Manchin Says He’s Not Running For President, Dismisses Harris As ‘Absolutely’ Too Far Left

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Sen. Joe Manchin (I-WV) said on Monday he will not run for the White House after reportedly considering a campaign when President Joe Biden exited the race.

“I am not going to be a candidate for president,” Manchin declared on CBS. “I am a candidate for basically speaking for the middle of this country … Neither side can win without the sensible, moderate middle. They can’t do it. But yet, no one is going in that direction.”

Less than 24 hours earlier, after Biden dropped out on Sunday, multiple reports indicated Manchin was considering re-registering to the Democratic Party and running for the presidency. Sources told CNN and NBC News that Manchin was considering a bid. CBS News reporter Robert Costa reported how some Democratic Party donors and officials were reaching out to Manchin about it.

Biden has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris, the only declared candidate seeking the Democratic Party’s 2024 presidential nomination at the moment. A number of party leaders have quickly rallied behind Harris. But not everyone has, including former President Barack Obama.

Manchin, who left the Democratic Party and became an independent in late May, has not backed Harris. When asked on CBS if Harris was too far left on the political spectrum, Manchin said, “Absolutely.” He added, “Let’s see if she comes back. You know, a person can be in one position and make a change or a direction change and I would like to see that direction change.”

The Democratic National Committee (DNC) is expected to have its delegates vote on a nominee next month during a virtual roll call or in an open convention at the party’s convention in Chicago from August 19-22. DNC Chairman Jaime Harrison said there would be a “transparent and orderly process” to pick a nominee who Democrats believe can defeat former President Donald Trump.

Manchin said many people would like to see a “mini primary” that would help determine “if you have the strongest candidate, whether it be Kamala or whoever else.” He rejected the suggestion that he could join the race as Harris’ running mate, chuckling and saying it would not be him. When shown a graphic of governors, senators, and Biden Cabinet members who could join Harris’ ticket, Manchin said they were all “good people.” He added, “Wouldn’t it be great to see them all? I guarantee you, the Democratic Party would be able to pick from there if they hear them.”