In spite of attempts to meet with President Obama during the last 3 1/2 years, he admits to being all but ignored. He understands the president is busy, but he can't help but believe it is also because has never ceased to champion the cause of his home state.
"Many West Virginians believe that the last 3 ½ years have not been good." He continue, "I do not believe that Obama is good for coal and his green stance can and has had a negative impact on the already shaky economy of West Virginia." In a sobering move yesterday, Manchin stated he can no longer ignore real differences with Obama and cannot support him in the 2112 presidential election.
Manchin also feels that Obama is also "at odds with hunters in West Virginia. Increasing reports and rumors have Obama at odds with the Second Amendment and American gun ownership. Any further restrictions on the right to bear arms could further damage West Virginia's hunting industry which would also impair West Virginia's tourism industry." Joe sited the continued rise in gun ownership since Obama was elected [CNN] as evidence that many Americans and West Virginias feel the same.
Manchin said," I regretfully must 'jump ship' from the Democratic party. It is a sinking ship. Their goals are no longer what is best for West Virginians. In order to serve West Virginian to the best of my capabilities, it is necessary that I join The Republican party. Republicans believe in coal. Republicans believe in the right to bear arms. Republicans believe in lower taxes. Republicans believe in West Virginia."
Asked if he was concerned his about-face will alienate him from the average West Virginian voter, Machin said, "I don't think so. In the last few presidential elections, West Virginia has overwhelmingly voted Republican."
Manchin intends to run for senator in as a Republican and plans to lobby to lower taxes in West Virginia to ease the burden on West Virginians that are hurting. Manchin said, "West Virginian families are struggling. Taxes are driving them down into the darkness. I have seen the flicker of light in the distance. That light is the hope of lower taxes that can ease the burden on families and encourage businesses to bring jobs into West Virginia. That flicker of light is shining from the Republican Party, therefore I will join Republicans to ensure that the light shines on all West Virginians. West Virginia will find it's way out of the dark - and West Virginia Coal will power that light."
