Local Democrats Reflect On Joe Manchin’s Impact
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WHEELING -- Many local Democrats praise U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin, and some of them even admit they had their differences with him over the years. Despite any differences, they acknowledge he has always worked hard for West Virginia and had a positive impact on the state.
Manchin announced this week he would not seek re-election to the Senate in 2024. He has been a member in the chamber since winning a special election following the death of Sen. Robert C. Byrd, and taking office in late 2010.
John Saunders is a long-time staff representative with the United Steelworkers of America who has worked politically with Manchin since he was a state senator in the 1980s. He said he was not surprised by Manchin's decision, as most recent polling numbers showed him trailing in a potential race against a Republican challenger Gov. Jim Justice or U.S. Rep. Alex Mooney.
"I think it's a sad day for West Virginia," Saunders said. "I've had my differences with Joe over the years on different issues, but clearly I believe he was one person in Washington trying to make a difference and find a way to West Virginia and the country as a whole. I wish him well."
He contends the stress of extreme partisan politics drove Manchin to not seek re-election.
"Even though we've had our differences, he has been a very good public servant," Saunders continued. "It's a sad day when you have to be true to a party to be able to do your job in Washington. Clearly, the everyday politics in Washington drove Joe to that decision.
"I've probably had more disagreements with Joe than anybody in the state. But I always respected him. They (fellow Democrats) drove him out ... because there is no such thing as compromise in Washington. I think American voters want the middle ground in politics. I just don't think both parties want that right now."
Former State Sen. Ed Bowman of Hancock County has been a big supporter of Manchin during both their careers.
"I was not surprised," Bowman said. "I've been saying for months and months he wouldn't run again.
"It's a matter of life," he continued. "West Virginia is predominantly Republican. It is too monumental for even Sen. Manchin to get over. I continue to be a big supporter of his, but it is what it is. It is difficult now for a Democrat to win in West Virginia."
There is speculation Manchin might want to run as a third party presidential candidate as a "No Labels" candidate, but Bowman is skeptical.
"The only way I would hope that would happen, is if there is overwhelming support shown for him in the polls," Bowman said. "I would not want to see him have an effect on the race between the two parties.
"There comes a time in every political life where there is an ending," he added. "It remains to be seen what he will do in the future. But I know Joe Manchin should be proud of what he has done for West Virginia."
Former West Virginia Senate President Jeff Kessler noted that when he ran for governor in 2016, it was Manchin who recruited Justice to also run as a Democrat in the race and defeat him. Justice would go on to win the governor's office with Manchin's support, later switch parties to Republican, then fire Manchin's wife Gayle from a cabinet position.
"Sort of ironic how it all played out," Kessler said. "Justice was a creation of the Manchin machine that ultimately came back to haunt him."
Kessler suspects Manchin has been watching the polls and seeing that he would have a difficult time defeating Justice in a general election matchup.
"This was an opportunity for him to bow out gracefully," Kessler said of Manchin. "I don't think he will fall by the wayside. There is speculation he will try a third party run for president - that's a long shot that's never worked for anyone else.
"He's done an admirable job," Kessler added. "I have no qualms about his performance, even though we haven't always seen eye to eye. But when you look at the alternatives we would have (in other candidates) ... he has done a good job of warding off some of the crazies."
Former State Sen. Jack Yost, who represented Brooke County, said the new Wellsburg Bridge opened this year might not have been built for many years.
"Without Joe Manchin, the bridge would not have occurred at this time," he continued. "Joe and (former state transportation director) Paul Mattox as a team made it come to fruition."
Yost added he always thought Manchin did a great job for West Virginia.
"He was always on top of things. He had a good staff. I don't know if he will be replaced by someone who will work as hard as he did," Yost said. "Hopefully he will find another avenue in which he could serve. I wish him well. He was an awesome governor and a wonderful senator."
Former Delegate Lisa Zukoff of Marshall County said she certainly understands Manchin's concerns about how partisan both parties have become.
"As I learned, it's gotten more nasty," Zukoff said. "I just wish he would have decided earlier. Folks have gotten started much earlier than normal, and that would have given somebody more of a chance."
She thanked Manchin for his service to West Virginia.
"The state has benefitted from his experience," Zukoff said. "This last term I know was so contentious politically. ... It's not healthy for our country or our state."
Current Marshall County Commissioner Mike Ferro, who served in the House of Delegates while Manchin was governor, spoke well of Manchin and supported his choice to not seek re-election.
"It was a personal decision he wanted to make. I thank him for everything he has done and wish him the best," he said.
Ferro's wife Roseann works for Manchin as a field representative.
Ohio County Education Association President Jenny Craig also is a member of the Ohio County Democratic Executive Committee and serves as the State Democratic Executive Committee secretary.
"I'd like to extend my gratitude to Senator Joe Manchin for his dedicated service and commitment to our party's values," Craig said. "His willingness to work across party lines and engage in constructive dialogue amidst a deeply polarized political landscape have been instrumental in advancing important legislation and achieving meaningful results for the American people.
"As we look towards the future, the West Virginia Democratic Party is eager to continue moving forward - united in our shared vision for a more just, inclusive, and equitable nation. We have renewed focus to seek out and support candidates who align with our ideals and principles, and we are committed to finding and endorsing individuals who will champion the causes that matter most to our party and the American people. Together, we will continue to fight for progress and create a brighter tomorrow for all West Virginians and all Americans," she added.