Manchin cautions Democrats that Trump probes could trigger 2028 GOP comeback

Joe Manchin told host Michael Smerconish that Democrats should avoid launching investigations of Donald Trump if they win control of Congress, warning it could pave the way for a Republican takeover in 2028. He suggested the party concentrate on bills that reduce the cost of living, thereby compelling Trump to either approve or reject policies the Democrats can present as beneficial. Manchin’s remarks arrive as Democrats wrestle with whether to pursue impeachment or other probes of Trump, with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries indicating investigations remain a possibility.

Other leaders, including Katherine Clark and Pete Aguilar, have emphasized the need for a thorough investigative process before any impeachment. Several Democratic lawmakers, such as Steve Cohen and Rahm Emanuel, have expressed skepticism that impeachment would succeed and could divert attention from economic issues. The debate reflects broader strategic calculations about how the party’s post-midterm agenda might influence the political landscape leading up to the 2028 election.