GOP Senators Attempt to Recruit Joe Manchin

Should Manchin flip, Republicans would have a Senate majority.

Should Manchin flip, Republicans would have a Senate majority.

Since his refusal to back President Joe Biden’s “Build Back Better” economic plan, Democratic Virginia Senator Joe Manchin has become deeply unpopular within his own party, with many Democratic Senators chastising him for running counter to the party’s goals. In the wake of these concerns, members of the Republican party have begun extending offers to Manchin to flip parties.

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell said earlier on this week on conservative pundit Hugh Hewitt’s radio show that should Manchin have an interest in joining the GOP caucus, he would be readily welcomed by its members. “He feels like a man alone. If he were to join us he would be joining a lot of folks who have similar views on a whole range of issues,” McConnell said.

Political strategists have dismissed these efforts as a move by the GOP to obtain a slight Senate majority. Indeed, should Manchin flip his affiliation, the GOP would gain such a majority, which would likely make passing bills more difficult for Democratic senators, as well as the President.

“The only reason why Democrats have the majority is because of this guy,” Democratic strategist Jim Manley told The Hill.

“But, still, I would urge folks to be a little bit careful here,” he added.