Thaindian News

By Meena Kar
Nov 3, (THAINDIAN NEWS) It was not too hard for Democrat Joe Manchin to win the US Senate Special Election in West Virginia, defeating Republican and businessman John Raese, and make his way to the Senate once again. He had a comfortable lead against John Raese, as he secured 53 percent against the 44 percent bagged by the Republican. The margin was about 50,000 votes.

His office belonged to Late Senator Robert C. Byrd, who expired on June 28, 2010. After some initial hesitation, Joe Manchin took the responsibility of his office on July 20, 2010, declaring that he would seek the seat in the special election. His victory was not that apparent even till a few weeks ago, when too many polls were in favor of his opponent, John Raese. But as the D-day approached, he decided to redesign his campaign in order to bring things under his command. Joe Manchin said that he would have an independent voice in the senate, where he would like to work with the positive aspects of both the parties. After his victory, the next question that arises is who would be the next governor of West Virginia as his replacement. However, the current state code suggests that he will continue to be the governor, until the next general election in 2012, when the West Virginians would decide, who will serve the governors office for the remaining span.

All the state Democrats gathered at the Marriott in downtown Charleston late Tuesday, to celebrate his victory. He arrived at 9:15 PM, to give his opening speech. The 63 year old democrat said in his victory speech that he would be no looking back for West Virginia now and the betterment of his country would be his first priority. He will head towards the Senate by mid November, after the election results are certified.