Manchin Criticizes Democrats Following AOC's Remarks on Charlie Kirk, Highlights Party Decline

Senator Joe Manchin expressed strong criticism of Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's remarks following the assassination of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, describing her comments as inappropriate and damaging to the Democratic Party. Manchin highlighted that AOC's negative characterization of Kirk and her vote against a resolution honoring him have contributed to a perception of the Democratic Party moving "worse, not better," which he believes has caused significant losses in party membership, with over 160,000 Democrats leaving since the last election. He warned that the party's shift towards the far left alienates moderate voters crucial for national electoral success. Manchin's views were shared during interviews with CNN and other media outlets, where he lamented the party's current direction and the impact of such divisive rhetoric. The criticism underscores internal tensions within the Democratic Party regarding its ideological direction and public messaging. These developments come amid broader concerns about political polarization and violence in the United States.