Daijiworld Media Network - Washington
Washington, Apr 25: As Donald Trump's second term accelerates, the Democratic Party faces a tough challenge in countering the momentum of the White House juggernaut. Some Democrats are revisiting tactics from the 2016 resistance, while others are hopeful that Trump's presidency will eventually falter. However, former Democratic Senator Joe Manchin advocates for a bold and pragmatic approach: collaboration with the president.
In a recent interview, Manchin, who has distanced himself from the Democratic Party and now identifies as an Independent, offered a unique perspective. He remarked, "Trump is the leader of our country. Why would you not work with him? Just because he's a different party? Didn't vote for him? That's not a reason."
Manchin, known for his ability to win re-election in deep-red Trump territory like West Virginia, has often been a dissenting voice within the Democratic Party, occasionally blocking key legislation. Before retiring from the Senate in January, Manchin shifted his official designation to Independent, signaling his departure from the party.
"I want Donald Trump to succeed," Manchin stated, underscoring his willingness to lend his expertise to avoid past mistakes and contribute to effective governance. He added that Trump should also "open his arms up" to work with Democrats and Independents, suggesting that a cooperative approach would be more beneficial than the current partisan attacks.
Manchin did not shy away from criticizing his former party, pointing to issues like the case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a 29-year-old Salvadoran deported under questionable circumstances. While acknowledging the importance of due process, Manchin criticized the Democrats for making a political spectacle out of the incident.
On the larger issues facing the country, Manchin emphasized America's soaring national debt, which currently stands at $36 trillion. He urged Democrats to focus on fiscal policy and budget balancing, areas he believes could provide a meaningful platform for the party.
The former senator also proposed concrete reforms, including term limits for the president, members of Congress, and Supreme Court justices. Manchin advocates for a one-term, six-year presidency to eliminate the need for re-election concerns, as well as limiting Congressional service to 12 years and imposing 18-year terms for justices.
Despite the likelihood that such proposals would face resistance from entrenched political figures, Manchin's candid remarks serve as a call for bold reform in a time of intense partisan division. His unique position as a former Democrat with deep connections to Trump country offers a perspective that is both insightful and provocative.