The Bulwark Podcast Joe Manchin: The Man in the Middle
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Sep 16, 2025 Joe Manchin, the former U.S. Senator from West Virginia and author of "Dead Center: In Defense of Common Sense," joins the conversation to discuss his candid views on political leaders like Schumer and Obama. He critiques the left's influence on Biden and reflects on the state of West Virginia, addressing the lingering impacts of Trump's presidency. Manchin also shares insights on the filibuster's significance, the challenges of political polarization, and the complexity of addressing gun reform in America, all while contemplating his state's shifting identity.
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Centrist Identity Rooted In Upbringing
- Manchin attributes his centrism to upbringing and consistent personal values formed early in life.
- He says that background gave him strength to resist partisan pressure in Washington.
Demand Empathy From Political Leaders
- Do practice empathy and civility in political discourse to reduce escalation and violence.
- Call on elected leaders to model restraint instead of blaming opponents for tragedies.
Sandy Hook Sparked Manchin's Push
- Manchin recounts the emotional impact of Sandy Hook and how it motivated his push for background checks.
- He describes learning about gun-show loopholes and why universal checks seemed a no-brainer to him.
