‘I Believe In Him’: Longtime Democrat Senator Praises Trump In Surprising Fox Interview

A former Democrat in the U.S. Senate shocked Fox News viewers on Friday when he suggested that President Donald Trump is the only person who can “bring this country together” after the assassination of Charlie Kirk.

The murder of Kirk, 31, has drawn sharp partisan lines in the sand as Trump and fellow Republicans accuse Democrats of having incited violence with allegations of fascism and Nazism going back to the president’s first term. Democrats in response have turned Trump’s own words against him in some cases, claiming he’s encouraged a much higher degree of right-wing violence.

That argument is nonsense to Joe Manchin, the former Democratic senator from West Virginia.

“President Trump is the person who can basically bring us together,” he told a startled Fox host.

“I’m praying that he’s able to say ‘listen, enough’s enough. C’mon, we’re all Americans. We’ve gotta live in this world together and our country, and keep it the greatest country on earth,'” he continued.

Manchin retired from the Senate this year after serving a total of 14 years. In that time, he watched his coal-powered home state trend steadily red, and his seat was an easy pickup for Republicans in last year’s elections.

Since leaving office, Manchin has used his newfound freedom to advocate for bipartisanship and centrism, the ideals he fought for as a member of the Senate’s middle. He added that Trump is the only individual in American politics today who can bridge a divide that’s never been wider.

“I’m really hoping. I believe in him. I believe he can do that, and with that being said, he’s able to calm down all this rhetoric right now. And for those who want to still spew it? That’s fine, it’s gonna show you being on the extreme,” asserted Manchin.

WATCH:

Partisan warfare over Kirk’s death led to a feisty exchanges in the halls of power this week when “Squad” Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI) accused Republicans of fascism, saying it’s “not a bad word” if it’s true. That set off MAGA Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL), leading to both lawmakers shouting over one another for nearly a minute as a committee chair tried to restore order.

Even a moment of reflection in the hours following Kirk’s death was controversial. After U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) wrapped up a silent prayer, Democrats objected when GOP Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL) asked to read a public prayer. Incessant booing and name-calling ended what would have been a solemn occasion.

“You caused this!” Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) shouted across the aisle.

“Pass some gun laws!” a Democrat shouted back.