Manchin Critiques Schumer Over Filibuster Remarks in New Book

Former Senator Joe Manchin (I-W.Va.) has expressed his criticisms of Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) in a forthcoming book, particularly regarding Schumer’s 2022 initiative to abolish the filibuster.

The book, titled “Dead Center: In Defense of Common Sense,” is set to be published on Tuesday, with an advanced copy obtained by Punch Bowl News.

Manchin wrote, “Schumer wasn’t interested in debate or persuasion. He wanted a sight, he wanted a vote that he could use as a weapon.” He emphasized that the issue was more about power than governance or principles.

Attempts to seek a comment from Schumer’s office received no response.

In January 2022, Schumer, who was then the Senate Majority Leader, sought to eliminate a practice the Senate has followed since 1837. This proposal was ultimately voted down, with a 52-48 tally, featuring Manchin and former Arizona Senator Kyrsten Sinema, who later shifted her affiliation to independents.

Supported by former President Biden, Schumer’s goal was to end the filibuster in order to facilitate the passage of voting rights legislation.

Senate rules allow for prolonged discussions on any topic, which can delay or obstruct votes on bills and amendments.

Historically, the Senate modified its rules in 1917 to require a two-thirds majority to end a filibuster, which was later adjusted to a three-fifths majority in 1975.

Manchin has been a staunch defender of the filibuster, previously declining to support former Vice President Kamala Harris, who aimed to eliminate it to secure federal abortion rights. “She knows that the filibuster is the Holy Grail of Democracy,” Manchin stated in a CNN interview. “If she removes it, this will be a steroid home.”

In his book, Manchin indicates that he hopes Republicans will regain control of the Senate in the 2024 elections in support of preserving the filibuster.

At the start of the year, current Senate Majority Leader John Tune (R-D.) expressed commitment to maintaining the Senate filibuster.