Senator Joe Manchin 

A congeries of circumstances have thrust Joe Manchin into a position of  extraordinary power. Manchin is considered to be the most conservative Democratic senator. He represents a state that voted overwhelmingly for Trump in the 2020 elections. He holds a pivotal position in a senate split 50-50 between those aligned with the Republican leadership and those aligned with the Democratic leadership. It may not be an overstatement to say that Manchin has the power to save American democracy or trash it. 

     Being thrust into a position of great power, like winning a mega million lottery, can affect one’s thinking. It’s an experience that in many instances generates arrogance and ego-driven behavior. It can also invest the lucky winner with a sense of moral responsibility. We’ll learn in the coming months how it affects Joe Manchin.