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

In a rare display of bipartisan unity, 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 men lamented the dysfunction and lack of progress in the legislative body, with Manchin going so far as to say that Americans should be “ashamed” of the 118th Congress.

The House has been mired in gridlock for months, struggling to pass any meaningful legislation and constantly facing leadership challenges. Portman described the current situation as “dysfunctional,” a sentiment echoed by many on both sides of the political aisle.

During the interview, both moderates expressed their frustration 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 man committed to endorsing either Biden or Trump.

Manchin pointed to the ongoing immigration and border policy issues as a prime example of the dysfunction in Congress, criticizing both Biden and House Republicans for failing to come to a bipartisan agreement on the issue. Portman emphasized the importance of finding common ground and working together to solve problems, a sentiment he fears is lacking in the current Senate.

The announcement earlier this year that Manchin will not seek reelection has added another layer of complexity to the already contentious battle for control of the Senate. With his seat likely to be filled by a Republican, the race for the majority has become even tighter, with both parties vying for control of key swing states.

As Congress continues to struggle with partisan gridlock and infighting, Manchin and Portman’s joint interview serves as a stark reminder of the need for cooperation and bipartisanship in order to move the country forward.