WASHINGTON (AP) — Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia is preparing to announce whether he’ll run for governor in next fall’s election.
His spokesman says Manchin is expected to announce his decision sometime Tuesday.
Manchin’s entry into the gubernatorial race would likely set up a showdown with Republican Gov. Jim Justice, a former Democrat who enjoys the support of President Trump.
Trump’s support is sky-high in West Virginia, but Manchin is a rare Democrat who is popular statewide. He served as governor from 2005 to 2010.
Senate Democrats are trying to take back the majority in 2020. If Manchin wins the governor’s race, he could possibly appoint his successor in the Senate. If he loses, he can remain in the Senate and not face reelection until 2024.
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