Senator Joe Manchin Humorously Suggests He Could Be America’s Marginally Younger Presidential Choice

During a weekend event in Washington, Senator Joe Manchin playfully hinted at a potential independent presidential campaign, suggesting that America might benefit from a leader marginally younger than the current front-runners.

Manchin’s comments came at the winter dinner of the Gridiron Club on Saturday, where he opined that the United States might fare better under the guidance of a younger president, in comparison to President Joe Biden or 2024’s leading Republican candidate, former President Donald Trump.

“Respectfully, the current president is 81 years old, and Donald Trump is 77,” Manchin, a Democrat from West Virginia who recently decided against a 2024 Senate reelection bid, stated. “I’m of the firm belief that the American public is ready to transition leadership to the next generation, someone younger. Perhaps someone around 76, who doesn’t appear a day older than 70.”

Manchin himself is 76 years old.

Previously on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Manchin had not ruled out a presidential bid, affirming in November that he would “definitely” consider a presidential candidacy. His potential independent run has raised alarms among some Democrats, who worry it could detract from Biden’s support and ultimately lead to a second Trump presidency.

The annual Gridiron Club and Foundation dinner in Washington, a tradition dating back to 1885, showcases light-hearted speeches and songs from members of both political parties and the press, aiming to humorously critique, yet not deeply offend, Washington’s political figures.

In his speech, Manchin also joked about the possibility of his candidacy altering the election dynamics.

“I’ve heard every theory. You’ve all heard them,” Manchin remarked. “Many of you have probably shared them with me. Some say my candidacy would hand the election to Trump. Others think it could actually boost Biden. Honestly, I’m trying to figure out how it benefits me.”

Further, Manchin humorously defended No Labels, a political group he is closely connected with and is considering fielding a third-party ticket. There is a movement encouraging both Manchin and another retiring senator, Republican Mitt Romney of Utah, to run under the No Labels banner.

Manchin quipped, “No Labels is being blamed for all of Washington’s problems. How did classified documents end up at Mar-a-Lago? Must be No Labels’ fault.”

The Republican perspective at the dinner was provided by South Carolina Representative Nancy Mace.

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More about Joe Manchin Presidential Run

• Joe Manchin Presidential Consideration
• Manchin’s Gridiron Club Speech
• Manchin on “Meet the Press”
• Democrats’ Concerns About Manchin Run
• Gridiron Club and Foundation History