Sen. Joe Manchin and Former Sen. Rob Portman Express Disappointment in Congress

In a rare display of bipartisan unity, Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) and former Sen. Rob Portman (R-Ohio) came together in a joint interview to express their deep disappointment in the current state of Congress. The two moderates did not hold back in their criticism, with Manchin going as far as to say that Americans should be “ashamed” of the legislative body.

During the interview with CNN’s Manu Raju, Manchin and Portman highlighted the dysfunction and gridlock that has plagued the 118th Congress. The House has been unable to pass significant legislation, relying on short-term funding deals and facing constant turmoil in leadership.

Both senators expressed their frustration with their respective parties. Manchin, who has clashed with the Biden administration, and Portman, a vocal critic of former President Trump, lamented the lack of bipartisanship and problem-solving in Congress.

Manchin specifically called out President Biden for his handling of immigration and border policy, but also criticized House Republicans for rejecting a bipartisan Senate border security bill earlier this year. He emphasized the importance of finding common ground and working together to address pressing issues.

Portman, who recently retired from the Senate, reminisced about the spirit of bipartisanship that used to prevail in Congress. He expressed concern that the willingness to collaborate and solve problems is now in short supply.

The interview comes at a critical time, as Manchin announced earlier this year that he will not seek reelection, potentially tipping the balance of power in the Senate. Both parties are vying for control of swing states, making the race for the majority even tighter.

As Congress continues to grapple with partisan divides and legislative gridlock, Manchin and Portman’s candid remarks serve as a stark reminder of the need for cooperation and compromise in order to effectively govern.