Joe Manchin on the Fight for America’s Future: Term Limits, Bipartisanship & the 2028 Election

Overview

This episode features Senator Joe Manchin discussing his new book Dead Center in Defense of Common Sense. The conversation delves into his political philosophy, his experiences navigating a polarized Senate, his views on entitlement culture, the importance of bipartisanship, and his thoughts on the future of American politics, including the potential for a third political party.

Notable Quotes

- If we pass this piece of legislation, you're asking me to vote for, the BBB, you're changing the psychic of the nation to 'how much more can my country do for me.' I wasn't born that way, I wasn't raised that way, I don't believe that way, and I can't do it. – Senator Joe Manchin, on opposing the Build Back Better bill.

- We need to have term limits... Maybe we'd get one good term where you'd have the courage to do the job, put country before party, and quit worrying about getting re-elected. – Senator Joe Manchin, on the need for term limits in Congress.

- The debt of the nation will take us down. We will fold because of unmanaged debt, which will lead us to make cowardly decisions. – Senator Joe Manchin, quoting Admiral Mike Mullen on the greatest threat to the U.S.

🛑 Blocking Build Back Better and Defending the Filibuster

- Senator Manchin shared his opposition to the Build Back Better (BBB) bill, citing concerns about its $6 trillion price tag and its potential to exacerbate inflation.

- He described intense pressure from his own party, including death threats and organized protests, to support the bill.

- Manchin emphasized the importance of the filibuster as a safeguard for democracy, arguing that it forces bipartisan compromise and prevents one-party dominance.

- He criticized the use of reconciliation to bypass the filibuster, stating it undermines the Senate's role as a deliberative body.

🧭 Biden, Obama, and Trump: Leadership Styles and Challenges

- Manchin described President Biden as having been pushed too far left by his staff, which he believes is out of step with Biden's personal values. He also expressed disappointment in Biden's lack of follow-through on agreements.

- He characterized President Obama as elusive, noting his lack of engagement with Congress and his failure to foster bipartisan collaboration.

- In contrast, Manchin praised Presidents Trump and Clinton for their direct engagement and willingness to negotiate, though he criticized Trump for his divisive rhetoric.

💰 The Rise of Entitlement Culture and Socialism

- Manchin lamented the growing entitlement mentality in America, contrasting it with the values of personal responsibility and hard work he was raised with.

- He criticized policies that provide benefits without work requirements, arguing they undermine the dignity of work and foster dependency.

- He proposed reforms like financial literacy requirements for student loans and work requirements for child tax credits to ensure accountability and self-reliance.

⏳ The Case for Term Limits and Bipartisanship

- Manchin advocated for term limits in Congress, suggesting two six-year terms for senators and six two-year terms for House members. He believes this would reduce political gamesmanship and encourage lawmakers to prioritize the country over re-election.

- He highlighted the importance of bipartisanship, praising senators from both parties who prioritize collaboration over partisanship, such as Lisa Murkowski, Susan Collins, and Bill Cassidy.

- Manchin expressed frustration over missed opportunities for bipartisan solutions on issues like immigration reform and codifying Roe v. Wade.

⚖️ Breaking the Duopoly and the Future of U.S. Politics

- Manchin criticized the current two-party system, describing it as a duopoly that disenfranchises independents and stifles political competition.

- He called for open primaries to allow all voters, including independents, to participate in the candidate selection process.

- On the 2028 election, Manchin expressed hope for a centrist leader who could unite the country, mentioning figures like Andy Beshear and Stephen A. Smith as potential candidates.

- He also discussed the possibility of a third party, emphasizing the need for leaders who prioritize the country over party politics.