Joe Manchin Endorses Republicans Susan Collins and Mike Rogers

Former Senator Joe Manchin announced his support for Republican Senate candidates Susan Collins of Maine and Mike Rogers of Michigan during a CNBC interview on September 14, 2026. Manchin, who registered as an independent in May 2024, described both candidates as independent and free-thinking Republicans.

In Maine, Manchin endorsed Senator Collins for her sixth term, calling her the soul of the Senate and pledging to campaign on her behalf. He cited their history of bipartisan work on the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Collins is currently facing a challenge from former Maine Senate President Troy Jackson, a progressive candidate. Manchin explicitly rejected supporting candidates aligned with the Democratic Socialists of America, stating there is no way he would support a socialist candidate.

Manchin also endorsed former Representative Mike Rogers for an open seat in Michigan, though he noted that Rogers must denounce the trade policies of President Donald Trump to secure a victory. Both Collins and Rogers expressed gratitude for the endorsements. These races are considered critical for the Republican Party's efforts to maintain Senate control, with recent CNN polling indicating both contests remain highly competitive.