Republicans Courting Sen. Joe Manchin to Run for Governor Against Patrick Morrisey in West Virginia

Republicans are making a bold move in West Virginia, as they are actively courting Democratic Senator Joe Manchin to run for governor against Republican Attorney General Patrick Morrisey. According to sources close to Manchin, at least 20 wealthy Republicans have reached out to him, urging him to enter the gubernatorial race.

Morrisey, who recently won the state’s primary, is facing pressure from within his own party as these Republicans are working independently of the West Virginia Republican Party. The party has made it clear that they are fully backing Morrisey for governor, with the state party chairman expressing excitement over the prospect of electing him as the conservative voice in the Governor’s mansion.

This potential matchup comes after Morrisey lost to Manchin in the 2018 Senate race by a narrow margin of 3 percentage points. Manchin, who announced that he will not seek reelection to the Senate next year, has been approached by these Republicans as they see an opportunity to challenge Morrisey in the upcoming gubernatorial race.

While Manchin has not made any public statements regarding these rumors, the only Democrat currently in the gubernatorial race, Huntington Mayor Steve Williams, remains skeptical of the claims. Williams emphasized that Manchin has shown support for his campaign and has not indicated any intention to run for governor.

As the speculation continues to swirl, all eyes are on Joe Manchin to see if he will make a surprising entrance into the West Virginia gubernatorial race, setting the stage for a highly anticipated showdown with Patrick Morrisey.