U.S. Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia has officially parted company with the Democratic Party and has registered as an independent. In a statement released by Manchin, said that he changed his party affiliation at the West Virginia State Capitol. Manchin. Manchin explained-quote- “Today, our national politics are broken and neither party is willing to compromise to find common ground. To stay true to myself and remain committed to put country before party, I have decided to register as an independent with no party affiliation and continue to fight for America’s sensible majority,” end quote. His switch is raising questions about his future political plans.