Is more trouble on the horizon for President Joe Biden?
Speculation that West Virginia Democrat Sen. Joe Manchin could launch a third-party challenge is building as the lawmaker announced his plans to participate in No Labels' upcoming town hall event in New Hampshire.
The West Virginia senator has had a longtime relationship with No Labels and has been floated as a potential third-party candidate for the group. (RELATED: West Virginia Expert Weighs In – Could Joe Manchin Run for President?)
The group announced Wednesday that Manchin and former Utah Gov. Jon Huntsman (R), who ran for president in 2012, will be the keynote speakers during its “Common Sense” town hall at Saint Anselm College in New Hampshire on July 17.
“It is clear that most Americans are exceedingly frustrated by the growing divide in our political parties and toxic political rhetoric from our elected leaders,” Manchin said in a statement. “Our political discourse is lacking engaged debates around common sense solutions to solve the pressing issues facing our nation.”
The group announced its agenda earlier this week, saying it will focus on 30 ideas to take on issues facing Americans, including the budget, immigration, inflation, and education.
No Labels has been pushing to create a separate “unity ticket” as a third option for voters in 2024. However, the organization said in June that it would end its 2024 third-party push if Biden is “way” ahead of Trump in the polls by next spring.
The group has already secured places on the ballot in multiple states including Arizona, Alaska, Colorado, and Oregon.
Democrats have been tentative to voice support for a third-party campaign out of concern the move may negatively impact President Joe Biden's re-election chances. (RELATED: Joe Manchin Becomes Latest Democrat to Cast Doubt on Biden's Second Term)
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