Sen. Manchin Gives Final Senate Floor Speech
Editorial StaffThe Facts -
- Sen. Joe Manchin retires after a 42-year political career.
- Manchin switched from Democrat to unaffiliated in 2023.
- He helped negotiate major bills like the American Rescue Plan Act.
Sen. Joe Manchin Delivers Final Senate Speech
FAREWELL ADDRESS – U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin, I-W.Va., gave his final floor speech Tuesday afternoon as he prepares to retire at the end of December. -- Photo Courtesy/U.S. Senate
CHARLESTON — U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin wrapped up his 42-year political career with a heartfelt final speech on the Senate floor as he prepares to retire in December.
“I rise with a full heart and overwhelming sense of gratitude,” Manchin, I-W.Va., expressed. “It’s been the honor of my life to represent West Virginia in this great country.”
Manchin, announcing his retirement in November 2023, refrained from seeking a third term as West Virginia’s senior senator. He switched parties to unaffiliated in May.
Elected in 2010, Manchin succeeded the late Sen. Robert C. Byrd. He secured a full term in 2012 and was reelected in 2018.
“Fourteen years ago, I walked in this building not knowing what to expect,” he reflected. “I believed I could bring our West Virginia values to Washington.”
From a notable Marion County political family, Manchin began in the family carpet business before transitioning into the coal industry.
“I was raised in Farmington, where we learned to roll up our sleeves and get to work,” Manchin said, emphasizing his family’s immigrant roots.
Manchin's political journey began in 1982 in the West Virginia House of Delegates. After losing a 1996 gubernatorial primary, he became Secretary of State in 2000 and was elected governor in 2004 and again in 2008. His governorship saw significant policy changes in areas like workers’ compensation and education.
While adjusting to Senate procedures, Manchin noted the deep divisions in Washington. “It didn’t take long to see divisions run deep,” he said. “We needed to treat each other with respect.”
In a split Senate, Manchin became crucial for President Joe Biden's agenda. He helped finalize the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan Act and negotiate the $1.2 trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. His role in crafting the $737 billion Inflation Reduction Act was pivotal.
Manchin led the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, focusing on West Virginia's fossil fuel industry. His committee assignments allowed him to direct significant funding to the state.
Throughout his Senate tenure, Manchin advocated for coal miners, broadband expansion, and the Mountain Valley Pipeline. Manchin’s wife, Gayle Manchin, plays a significant role as co-chair of the Appalachian Regional Commission.
After a national tour considering a presidential run, Manchin will focus on Americans Together, a nonprofit aiming to recruit moderates for office. He will be succeeded by Gov. Jim Justice, who defeated former Wheeling mayor Glenn Elliott.
“I hope you visit with each other,” Manchin urged. “I’m not going anywhere. Call me whenever you want to come down.”
Sen. Shelley Moore Capito praised Manchin's service, saying, “Joe has always led with conviction. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together.”
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