All,
I have explained this before Manchin thinks he can be President by remaining a Rat. I have talked to several people who know Manchin personally and have advised him to switch parties or even to do a Joe Lieberman and go independent. They completely agree with the following analysis.
” ..
After the Rat party implodes due to leftist extremism. Manchin thinks he can ride in to the rescue. Be the moderate voice in between the two extremes - Schumer/Pelosi - left & Trumpian - right. (Trump as a right wing extremist?? WTF?) He basically can do a 1992 Bill Clinton and “triangulate” his way to the nomination. Then to win the Presidency - he does a “Bill Clinton act” but without the zipper problem & harridan harpy wife and seize the “middle ground”. Well it’s not 1992, politics have dramatically changed. There is little to no “middle ground” now and Manchin does not have the political skills nor “elitist credentials” of a Slick Willie. He also doesn’t have a “Dick Morris” in his camp. He is fooling himself, keeping his seat is the best he can do. I hope he doesn’t but I think he will - barely!
…..”
I don’t have your insights and/or friendships, but I do agree that Manchin pictures himself as the second coming of Slick.
I see this election ending same as you. Shame the WV GOP doesn’t have a stronger campaign and/or candidate.