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Manchin says he's not willing to abolish filibuster over GOP opposition to Jan. 6 commission

May. 27, 2021 04:14PM EST
 Dan Ackermann

Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) said Thursday he is not willing to abolish the legislative filibuster if Republicans block the creation of a bipartisan commission to investigate the deadly Jan. 6 Capitol riot, which they are set to do within hours.

Why it matters: Manchin — a crucial moderate swing vote — has blasted GOP leadership over the Jan. 6 commission and said "there is no excuse for any Republican to vote against" the bill. But his view has still not changed on eliminating or altering the filibuster, even if it prevents his party from passing key legislation.

What they're saying: "I'm not willing to destroy our government, no," Manchin said when asked if he would vote to end the filibuster if Republicans blocked the commission.

  • "I think we'll come together. You have to have faith there's 10 good people," he added, referring to the 10 Republicans that Democrats need to reach the 60-vote threshold.

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