Sen. Joe Manchin and Former Sen. Rob Portman Express Disappointment in Congress

In a rare display of bipartisanship, Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) and former Sen. Rob Portman (R-Ohio) came together in a joint interview to express their deep disappointment in the current state of Congress. Both politicians lamented the dysfunction and lack of progress in the legislative body, with Manchin going as far as to say that Americans should be “ashamed” of the 118th Congress.

The House has been struggling to pass any meaningful legislation, relying on short-term funding deals and facing constant turmoil within the Speakership. Portman described Congress as “dysfunctional,” highlighting the inability of lawmakers to come together and find common ground.

Both Manchin and Portman expressed their disappointment with their respective parties. Manchin has been at odds with the Biden administration, while Portman was a vocal critic of former President Trump before retiring from the Senate in 2022. Despite their differences, neither committed to endorsing Biden or Trump.

Manchin criticized Biden for his handling of immigration and border policy, but also pointed fingers at House Republicans for shooting down a bipartisan Senate border security bill earlier this year. Portman emphasized the importance of bipartisanship in solving problems, a sentiment he cherished during his Senate career but believes is lacking in today’s political climate.

The upcoming Senate race has been further complicated by Manchin’s announcement that he will not seek reelection this November, potentially leaving his seat to a Republican. This development has intensified the battle for the Senate majority, as both parties vie for control in key swing states.

As Congress continues to grapple with gridlock and division, Manchin and Portman’s joint interview serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for cooperation and compromise in order to address the pressing issues facing the nation.