Joe Manchin Embarks on Book Tour, Criticizes Democratic Party in New Memoir
Former U.S. Senator Joe Manchin is launching a media blitz and book tour this week to promote his new memoir, “Dead Center: In Defense of Common Sense.” The book, released on Tuesday, sees Manchin critiquing the Democratic Party and its leaders, including former Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden.
Manchin's Critique of the Democratic Party
In "Dead Center," Manchin asserts that the Democratic Party has shifted away from him, rather than the other way around. He argues that under the leadership of Obama, Harry Reid, Biden, and Chuck Schumer, the party has weakened democratic guardrails. Manchin criticizes what he sees as the party's embrace of "woke ideology" and "DEI mandates," claiming they alienate everyday citizens.
Manchin particularly singles out Schumer's attempt to eliminate the filibuster in 2022. He felt that Schumer prioritized political spectacle over genuine debate and persuasion, accusing him of weaponizing the vote to appease the radical left. He even expressed a desire for Republicans to win the Senate majority in 2024 to preserve the filibuster.
Schumer wasn’t interested in debate or persuasion. He wanted a spectacle. He wanted a vote he could weaponize, a moment he could broadcast to the radical left to prove his loyalty. This wasn’t about governing or principle. It was about power.
Regrets and Reflections
Despite his criticisms, Manchin expresses some regrets, including his initial opposition to Obamacare. He also reveals that he considered switching to the Republican Party when Donald Trump was elected in 2016, citing the demonization of the coal industry in his home state of West Virginia as a key factor. He believes Democrats have lost their way not only on policy but also "in spirit, culture, and trust."
- Considered switching to Republican party during Trump's election.
- Believes Democrats have lost trust of West Virginians.
- Regrets initial opposition to Obamacare.
Book Tour Kick-Off in Morgantown
Manchin's book tour begins in Morgantown, West Virginia, at the Diversified Energy Terrace in Milan Puskar Stadium. He will be interviewed by retired MetroNews “Talkline” Host Hoppy Kercheval. Manchin emphasizes the importance of common sense in politics, arguing it is increasingly rare in Washington D.C. He criticizes the "weaponized division" and "tribal mentality" that he believes dominate the political landscape.
He contends that both the Democratic and Republican parties operate on a model of "hate, division, and diversion," prioritizing opposition over finding common ground. Manchin maintains that he prefers remaining in the middle, working with both sides to uphold the Constitution and represent his constituents.
Manchin's Stance as an Independent
Manchin highlights his resistance to partisan pressure throughout his career, recalling an early experience where he defied a "party line vote." Despite being aggressively recruited by the GOP, he chose to remain independent, feeling that he doesn't fit neatly into either party. He criticizes both parties for straying from their core principles, particularly the Republicans' fiscal responsibility.
| Tour Stop | Location |
|---|---|
| First Stop | Morgantown, WV - Diversified Energy Terrace, Milan Puskar Stadium |
| Interviewer | Hoppy Kercheval |
