He could become a Republican, and might get an inducement to switch parties.
Suppose November’s elections result in a 50-50 Democrat/Republican split. Dems stay in control because Joe Biden is the tie breaking vote. But suppose after we see a 50-50 split, Manchin changes parties. Then the GOP is in control, by 51-49. I could imagine the GOP could try to recruit someone to change parties if it gave them control of the Senate.
The only honest thing about Joe Manchin is he will keep (D) after his name.
The Maine Senator is considering switching sides.
He made his bed with his betrayal of the 2nd amendment. He’s a rat for life.