Manchin's Exit: GOP Eyes Flipping West Virginia Senate Seat

West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin's decision to leave the Democratic Party has opened up the possibility of the GOP flipping the Senate seat he currently holds. Moderate Republicans are reportedly encouraging Manchin to run for governor, while the Democratic primary for the Senate seat has already concluded.

West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin's announcement that he is leaving the Democratic Party and registering as an independent has sent shockwaves through the political landscape. The move has raised speculation about Manchin's future political ambitions, including the possibility of running for governor or even seeking re-election to the Senate as an independent.

Manchin's departure from the Democratic Party has given hope to Republicans who believe they can flip the Senate seat he currently holds. The GOP is already eyeing potential candidates who could challenge Manchin in the 2024 election.

Reports suggest that moderate Republicans are encouraging Manchin to run for governor. They are dissatisfied with the party's nominee, state Attorney General Patrick Morrisey, and view Manchin as a more moderate alternative.

Manchin has previously downplayed rumors of a gubernatorial run but has not ruled it out entirely. He has expressed support for his friend, Democratic nominee Huntington Mayor Steve Williams.

According to a report by West Virginia MetroNews, sources "close" to Manchin have said that at least 20 Republicans "with financial resources" have encouraged him to run for governor.

Since the MetroNews report, Manchin has reportedly been bombarded by people urging him to run at an event at the Greenbrier resort in White Sulphur Springs. The resort is owned by the state's current governor, Democrat-turned-Republican Jim Justice.

The Democratic primary for the Senate seat is already over, meaning Manchin cannot run as a Democrat for governor. However, his decision to become an independent opens up the possibility of a different path.

Manchin has several options ahead of him. He could decide to run for re-election to the Senate as an independent, mount a bid for governor as an independent, or choose not to run for office at all.

Manchin has several more weeks to decide whether to run for Senate or governor. His decision will have a significant impact on the political landscape in West Virginia and may play a role in determining which party controls the Senate.

Fox News' Julia Johnson contributed to this report.