Sen. Joe Manchin endorses Democratic mayor to replace him in Senate seat, Republicans eyeing top pickup opportunity

Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) has officially endorsed Wheeling Mayor Glenn Elliott (D) as his pick to replace him in his Senate seat, a move that has Republicans eyeing the seat as a top pickup opportunity in the upcoming election.

In a video posted on social media, Manchin expressed his support for Elliott, praising his determination, vigor, and vitality to be successful as a senator. Manchin emphasized that Elliott will fight for West Virginia, create jobs, grow the economy, and prioritize the needs of the state over partisan politics in Washington, D.C.

Manchin, known for his moderate stance within the Democratic Party, announced in November that he would not seek reelection for another term. With Manchin out of the race, Republicans see his seat as a vulnerable one, given the Senate map that favors GOP pickup opportunities.

Elliott, who is up against former coal company CEO Don Blankenship and Marine Corps veteran Zach Shrewsbury for the Democratic nomination, credits Manchin for encouraging him to run for Senate. In the Republican primary, West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice is the front-runner, with Rep. Alex Mooney as his main opponent.

The primaries are set for May 14, and the race for Manchin’s Senate seat is expected to be closely watched as both parties vie for control of the Senate. Stay tuned for the latest updates on this developing story.