In September, a memoir by former Senator Joe Manchin is set to be released, showcasing what he dubs his “declaration of independence from the extremes on both sides.” St. Martin’s Press has announced that the book, titled “Dead Center: In Defense of Common Sense,” will be made available on September 16.
Having served as a senator since 2010, Manchin revealed last year his decision not to pursue re-election. As a rare Democrat victorious in the predominantly Republican state of West Virginia, he has fashioned himself as a moderate, independent from any specific ideology. Throughout his tenure, he has been known for challenging Democratic positions or disrupting legislation when the Democratic Party held a slight Senate majority during President Joe Biden’s administration.
Last summer, Manchin publicly distanced himself from the Democrats by identifying as an independent, yet he still collaborated with the party. In a statement facilitated through St. Martin’s, Manchin expressed that “Dead Center” serves as both a “declaration of independence” and a guiding manual for governance. He emphasized the importance of effective leadership being rooted in understanding the balance of collaboration, compromise, respect, negotiations, and viable solutions. “Leaders should be positive change agents and bring people and organizations together rather than drive them apart,” Manchin elaborated.
The memoir features an introduction by Nick Saban, an old friend and former coach, who is set to join the College Football Hall of Fame this year. St. Martin’s outlines that Manchin will chronicle his journey from the coal mines of Farmington, West Virginia, to prominent political power in the Senate. The publisher describes the book as a “revealing and entertaining memoir” where Manchin examines the crucial moments, challenging decisions, and fundamental principles that have shaped him personally and politically.
The book promises to combine never-before-told, intriguing stories from within the Senate and the White House with Manchin’s insights on the functioning—or dysfunction—of the government.