There are rumors that Vice President Kamala Harris might face competition for the 2024 Democratic presidential nomination from West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin, according to a source close to him.
Although 76-year-old Manchin had thought about running against President Joe Biden, he opted not to. He also declined to run for another full Senate term, with West Virginia Governor Jim Justice expected to succeed him in 2025.
Earlier on Sunday, Manchin joined other senators in urging Biden to withdraw from the race.
“With a heavy heart, I’ve decided it’s time to pass the torch to a new generation,” Manchin told CNN’s Jake Tapper. “I want him to be the president during the final months of his term and focus on uniting the country and promoting peace globally.”
Manchin also spoke on ABC News’ This Week with George Stephanopoulos, praising Biden for the legacy he will leave behind.
Biden later announced his withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race, following mounting pressure from within his party and Democratic donors, and endorsed Harris as the Democratic nominee.
Manchin, on the other hand, is advocating for an open process to select Biden’s replacement.
Newsweek reached out to Manchin’s office for comment but received no immediate response.
Manchin, a former West Virginia governor, chose not to run for another Senate term but was considered an ally to the president. His significant influence was evident in his 87.9% alignment with Biden’s position as of January 2023, which was crucial due to the even Senate split.
Manchin switched his party registration to Independent in May to explore his options but is now contemplating reverting to being a Democrat.
“We have many talented individuals in our party, like Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear,” Manchin stated, expressing his views in an interview with CNN.
Manchin isn’t the only Democrat who has refrained from endorsing Harris.
“This decision shouldn’t be rushed. We need to hear from voters before making a choice,” said Texas Rep. Lloyd Doggett in support of a gradual selection process.
New York Mayor Eric Adams acknowledged Biden’s decision to step aside but refrained from endorsing Harris, emphasizing the importance of choosing the best candidate to represent the party.