NEA supports

Joe Manchin

Current Office

U.S. Senate, West Virginia

On the Record

“It is in all of our best interest that every child receives a quality education that empowers them to succeed.”

Jul. 12, 2018, The Inter-Mountain

Talking Points

Joe Manchin understands the issues working people face because, growing up in a small coal mining town, he saw them firsthand.
Serving in the U.S. Senate, Joe worked to secure $12 million in funding for Head Start Programs in countries across West Virginia.
Joe has been an outspoken critic of Betsy DeVos's attempt to slash the education budget, citing the move as harm to West Virginia students, parents, and teachers.
During the historic walkout in 2018, Joe stood with educators and celebrated their eventual victory.
Senator Manchin is always available to WVEA and NEA leaders to discuss legislative issues.
In 2008 during Manchin's term as Governor he was instrumental in WVEA's effort to close the failed defined contribution retirement system and allow participants to transfer to the defined benefit retirement system. All new employees hired after July 1, 2008 participate in the defined benefit retirement system.

Biography

Born and raised in a small coal mining town in West Virginia, Joe Manchin understands the issues facing working people. Joe has shown that he is willing to work across party lines and put West Virginians first.

As Governor of West Virginia, Joe established the first comprehensive teacher pay package in more than 15 years. He did so while reducing the state’s debt.

While serving in the U.S. Senate, he has secured funding for West Virginians to bridge the workforce skills gap and expand STEM programs. He has also worked to lift the burden of student debt. Additionally, he continues to fight to protect Medicare and Social Security from cuts.