As a West Virginia senator, Manchin delivers an emotional final floor speech, declaring it to be the "honor of his life."

In his final floor speech, Sen. Joe Manchin emphasized the importance of unity as he departed the Senate after not seeking re-election this cycle.

"As my time in Congress comes to an end, I want to express my gratitude for the opportunity to represent West Virginia in this great country. My belief in the potential of this institution and each of you who serve it remains as strong as ever."

In his address, Manchin implored his fellow politicians to set aside their divisions and cooperate in an attempt to overcome political divides.

The senator admitted that he did not initially plan to join the Senate, but he seized an opportunity to serve a larger population and tackle greater challenges.

When Manchin first entered the Senate, he was asked to recruit Democratic candidates to run against Republicans, but he vowed not to work against his colleagues.

"I quickly realized that the divisions in this group are significant," he stated. "I won't raise funds to attack my friends and colleagues simply because they have an 'R' next to their name. How can we collaborate effectively if I'm working against them when they're in cycle?"

In his final speech, Manchin showcased West Virginia's achievements in energy, infrastructure, and job growth.

For decades, Manchin has been a prominent figure in West Virginia politics, in addition to his notable service in the senate.

Manchin began his political career as a state delegate in the early 1980s, later serving as a state senator until the late 90s. He then served as Secretary of State for four years before being elected as governor of West Virginia in 2005.

In 2010, Manchin was elected to his longest-held post as a Democratic senator for West Virginia. Known for his moderate approach and bipartisan work on national issues, the senator left the Democratic Party to register as an independent in May 2024. However, he continued to caucus with Democrats in the months following his departure from the party.

Manchin concluded his speech by urging his colleagues to address inflation and the southern border crisis, stressing that "taking small steps towards common ground can lead to powerful outcomes."

Manchin declared that he wouldn't be leaving, while appearing to tear up as he thanked his staff and family for their support throughout the years.

Manchin's service in the senate was commended by Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., before his farewell address.

""It brings me immense joy and a touch of melancholy to speak a few words in honor of my dear friend, a cherished colleague and senator, Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia, with whom I shared many disagreements but always maintained a friendly and cordial relationship," Schumer stated."