Manchin positions himself as bridge between Democrats and Republicans in new Congress
by Cami Mondeaux, Breaking News Reporter |
January 30, 2023 07:24 AM
Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) is seeking out a new role for himself in the Democratic-led Senate, positioning himself as a bridge between his party and Republican leaders to negotiate must-pass legislation.
In the last Congress, Manchin held considerable power as the chamber was split evenly along party lines — meaning Democrats would need to get the West Virginia senator on board or they’d risk sinking their agenda. Now as Democrats hold a 51-49 majority, Manchin is seeking to establish himself as the bridge between party leaders.
“I’ve always had a good, friendly relationship with [House Speaker Kevin McCarthy], and he’s in a position now where if we try to work together, we can do a lot of good for our country,” Manchin said, according to the Hill. “He wants things to happen.”
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https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/senate/manchin-bridge-between-democrats-and-republicans