Manchin Will Stump for Collins in Maine
Former Sen. Joe Manchin will travel to Maine this week to campaign alongside Republican Sen. Susan Collins. Manchin said he wants to push back on criticism that Collins too often backs President Donald Trump and to emphasize her bipartisan record. The two are scheduled to visit Androscoggin County on Wednesday.
Manchin, a former West Virginia senator identified as an independent, will campaign with Collins in Maine this week. Their Wednesday visit is set for Androscoggin County, which the material describes as fairly evenly divided.
Manchin said the trip responds to criticism that Collins backs President Donald Trump too frequently. He said he cannot recall a bipartisan effort without Collins and wants Maine residents to understand how her legislative style benefits the state.
Manchin's visit could affect how Maine voters view Collins, especially those weighing her bipartisan record against criticism of her Trump-aligned votes. It may also draw national attention to Androscoggin County as a politically balanced area, potentially shaping how local campaigns discuss moderation and party loyalty. The impact may be limited to how voters interpret Collins's record, though it could resonate with those who value cross-party cooperation.