What Did Joe Manchin Say About Endorsing Kamala Harris?

As discussions around Kamala Harris’ endorsement continue to gain momentum, Joe Manchin‘s position has become a focal point in political circles. The ongoing debate over the Senate filibuster and its role in passing abortion protection laws has brought Manchin’s stance to the forefront. With the 2024 election approaching, the intersection of key legislative issues and political endorsements has drawn significant attention.

Here’s a closer look at Manchin’s recent remarks and how they relate to Kamala Harris’ endorsement.

Joe Manchin will not endorse Kamala Harris

Senator Joe Manchin has confirmed that he will not provide his endorsement for Vice President Kamala Harris.

Manchin, a strong advocate for the filibuster, criticized Harris’ support for abolishing it to pass abortion protection laws. He referred to the filibuster as the “Holy Grail of democracy.” He argued that it plays a vital role in encouraging bipartisan dialogue within the Senate. (via CNN)

Harris, in an interview with Wisconsin Public Radio, reiterated her support for scrapping the 60-vote threshold to restore abortion rights previously protected under Roe v. Wade. Her stance aligns with President Joe Biden’s administration, emphasizing the need to protect reproductive freedom.

However, Manchin sees this move as harmful, warning it could damage the legislative process by paving the way for drastic changes. This disagreement over the filibuster highlights a broader divide in the Senate regarding key legislative issues.

While Harris supports majority-rule tactics to advance abortion rights, moderates like Manchin and Senator Kyrsten Sinema argue that abolishing the filibuster would disrupt the balance of power and threaten minority rights. This conflict highlights the tension between those advocating for swift legislative action and those prioritizing institutional stability.

With tight Senate margins, the future of abortion protections and other major legislation may depend on whether the filibuster remains or is modified. This decision will likely reflect the changing priorities of the electorate.