CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) — Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia has benefited from waiting to reveal where he stands as the swing vote in a chamber closely divided between Democrats and Republicans.
During a multi-day trip to West Virginia's capital this week, the 76-year-old expressed growing frustration with the polarized U.S. two-party system.
He managed to win reelection in 2018 in one of former President Donald Trump's most loyal states as the last of his party to hold statewide office in now-deep red West Virginia.
Still, Justice has a high approval rating in West Virginia, making him a formidable opponent for any candidate.
Robert Rupp, a retired political history professor at West Virginia Wesleyan, called Manchin one of the most successful campaigners in recent state history because of his personal relationships with constituents.
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Locations:
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