Manchin Urges Biden to Exit 2024 Election Race

Independent Senator Joe Manchin has called on President Joe Biden to “pass the torch,” aligning with a growing sentiment within Biden’s own party for him to step aside in the 2024 presidential race.

Manchin expressed his desire for the transition of power to be conducted “in the most respectful way.”

“I hope for that, as it would cement his legacy as one of the greatest leaders we’ve had,” Manchin told CNN’s Jake Tapper on “State of the Union” Sunday. “With a heavy heart, I’ve concluded that it’s time to pass the torch to a new generation.”

The independent senator highlighted the intense mental and physical demands of campaigning and suggested that Biden should focus his energy on his remaining five months in office. Manchin emphasized that Biden could use this time to “unite our country, calm the rhetoric, and concentrate on global peace.”

Regarding potential replacements, Manchin advocated for an “open process” to select a new nominee if Biden steps down. He expressed a preference for governors as potential candidates, citing their need to be less partisan due to their state leadership roles.

Manchin mentioned Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro as possible options, both of whom are among the many names discussed within Democratic circles.

On Biden’s mental capacity, when Tapper asked if he had noticed any changes in the president’s cognitive abilities, Manchin replied, “I have not.” He denied observing any differences in Biden’s behavior in recent months, saying, “I’ve not had that problem whatsoever.”

Some context: Manchin and Biden’s relationship has been strained during Biden’s presidency. The centrist Manchin has often been a significant obstacle to some of Biden’s legislative goals and has changed his party affiliation from Democrat to independent.