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“You probably got 10-12 people that don't think Amtrak should exist at one end - and then 10-12 at the other end (who want more money), and you got to get them to vote for the same bill,” Cole told reporters.

No, not “people”. Republicans. There’s a difference.

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"But what I will be doing is traveling the country, and speaking out to see if there is an interest in creating a movement to mobilize the middle, and bring Americans together.” - yeah Joe, that's a no.

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At least the campaign ads running against him would be fun. They have a lot of material to work with. Manchin has voted against reproductive rights, the LGBT equality bill and gun safety. That’s just for starters. Plus, he’s bought and paid for by the fossil fuel industry.

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And, got a new hairdo🤣

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There was lots of Dem handwringing over Manchin’s announcement yesterday (especially with Jill Stein’s entry since many still blame/thank her for taking enough votes away from HRC). But even if he makes good on his threat to run on the alleged No Labels platform, I’m wondering if Manchin wouldn’t end up garnering more votes from Never Trumpers. It would also be interesting to see if Manchin’s voting record and platforms would actually appeal to anyone at the national level.

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There is always a theoretical middle ground for an independent, but it always seems to run out of steam pretty quick. We saw that with Ross Perot. But late in that campaign, voters 'came home' to their regular party. Maybe this year is different. But I would say that Manchin certainly is not liked by the average kind of engaged Democratic voter. It is possible that he would draw away the Never Trump voters in some states, yes. I still think RFK Jr. will draw Trump voters, and people who would never vote for Biden.

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Come on Senate panel! Hope they get it done and stick it to Tuberville next week!

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