Quote (IceMage @ Jun 8 2021 08:11am)
Manchin's constant appeal to bipartisanship doesn't make a lot of sense. There's no political incentive for Republicans to work with Democrats... Mitch already announced his mission is to oppose Biden 100%. And besides that, Republicans simply have a different set of beliefs than Democrats, so finding some reasonable middle ground on voting rights or even infrastructure simply can't happen.
This is more about Manchin and his political beliefs than it is about Republicans. Manchin represents a very conservative state. He is not particularly liberal. He isn't up for reelection until 2024, and there is no chance that a successful challenge can come from the left. He has no reason to bend to Democratic pressure if he doesn't personally believe it benefits West Virginia and his own political interests. The Democrats are not entitled to his vote.
As for the voting bill, it was written to benefit Democrats electorally. Manchin believes, correctly, that it will further undermine faith in American democracy. His constituents think likewise.