Joe Manchin launches group to back independent congressional candidates

Joe Manchin, recently retired from the Senate after serving his last term as an independent, announced the formation of the Independent Leadership Council with his daughter Heather. The organization aims to identify and financially back independent candidates running in the November midterm elections, hoping to break the two-party deadlock in Congress. Manchin argues that a single independent vote can shift legislative outcomes, citing his own experience in the 117th Congress.

The council will review applicants and decide on funding by mid-September, insisting that supported candidates pledge not to join any party caucus. While this stance may limit committee assignments, Manchin suggests the Senate parliamentarian could offer a workaround. The effort could pave the way for more non-partisan representation and possibly influence future presidential contests.