Sen. Joe Manchin Leaves Democratic Party, Registers as Independent
Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia has registered as an independent, citing "partisan extremism" and a desire to put country before party. Manchin, who has often been at odds with his party, will continue to caucus with Democrats and maintain his chairmanship of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee. The move raises questions about his future political plans, including potential runs for Senate or governor. Manchin's decision comes as West Virginia has shifted heavily Republican, complicating his re-election prospects.