I didn’t really expect the “To Be Announced” convention speaker on Thursday to be West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin (D), but I heard buzz that a party switch speaker was a distinct possibility. If it is someone that is crossing lines to support Mitt Romney, it isn’t Joe, says a spokesperson:

Hi Justin,

Senator Manchin is a lifelong West Virginia Democrat and has no plans to attend the Republican National Convention.

Kathy Cosco
Communications Director
Manchin Campaign

I will continue working to narrow down the options. It’s a shame Manchin isn’t the speaker. Although I would undoubtedly back a real conservative over Manchin if he jumped to the Republican Party, I do have a little bit of love for the guy who shot Obama’s “Cap & Trade” bill in a campaign ad.