Breaking News: Senator Joe Manchin Sworn into the United States Senate

Summary

Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) was sworn into the United States Senate on November 15, 2010, to fill the seat left vacant by the death of Senator Robert Byrd. Manchin is a businessman and politician who has served as the 34th Governor of West Virginia.

Details

Manchin was born in Fairmont, West Virginia, and grew up in Farmington. He attended West Virginia University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration. After graduating, Manchin worked for his family's coal business before entering politics.

Manchin was elected to the West Virginia House of Delegates in 1982. He served in the House for eight years before being elected to the State Senate in 1996. As a State Senator, Manchin served as the Minority Leader from 2002 to 2004. In 2004, Manchin was elected Governor of West Virginia.

As Governor, Manchin faced a number of challenges, including the state's budget deficit. He implemented a number of austerity measures, including cuts to state spending and tax increases. Manchin also worked to improve the state's economy, and he supported a number of initiatives to promote job growth.

Manchin is a moderate Democrat. He is a supporter of organized labor and has opposed efforts to repeal the Affordable Care Act. Manchin is also a strong supporter of the Second Amendment.