Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., speaks during a "Politics & Eggs" event at the New Hampshire Institute Politics at St. Anselm College on Jan. 12, 2024, in Manchester, New Hampshire. Manchin has stated that he is not running for re-election in November. (Scott Eisen/Getty Images)
The West Virginia MetroNews report quoted sources "close" to the senator who said at least 20 Republicans "with financial resources" have encouraged Manchin to run for governor.
"Many Republicans who believe Manchin did a good job as governor previously are encouraging him to run again," one of the sources said, according to the outlet.
The state Republican Party issued a statement fully endorsing Morrisey against the Democratic nominee, Williams.
"The WVGOP is united squarely behind Patrick Morrisey for Governor. West Virginians are excited to continue our Republican victory streak by electing him as our conservative voice in the Governor’s mansion this November!" stated Matt Herridge, WVGOP chairman.
Manchin did not rule out a run for governor, but joked that his only interest is "in running for the border of West Virginia," to get away from the capital. (Samuel Corum/Getty Images)
Williams, in an interview with West Virginia MetroNews, cast doubt on the rumors Manchin would hop in the gubernatorial contest.
"Joe Manchin has not given me any indication that there has been any conversation along those lines. Secondly, he contributed to my campaign in the primary. He is committed to contributing to my campaign in the general, and we have had several conversations since election day," Williams told the outlet.
"Unless Joe Manchin is the most duplicitous person on the face of the earth, which I don’t believe he is because he’s been a friend for over 40 years now, I don’t see that these rumors have any legs."
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When pressed by reporters, Manchin, who is not running for reelection, joked Monday that his only interest is in returning home to get away from the capital.
"I'm not involved in anything right now except running for the border of West Virginia, so I can enjoy my life," he said.
Chris Pandolfo is a writer for Fox News Digital. Send tips to chris.pandolfo@fox.com and follow him on Twitter @ChrisCPandolfo.
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