West Virginia Gov. Joe Manchin announced on Tuesday his plans for a U.S. Senate bid this fall.The governor said during a press conference with reporters that he'll run for the seat held by the late Robert C. Byrd.
"I only hope I would be able to follow in his footsteps and continue to help the people of West Virginia," Manchin said of Byrd, who died last month at age 92.
"I intend, with the opportunity, to work as hard in Washington as I've worked in West Virginia," he said. "I believe in you more than you believe in yourself."
Manchin, a Democrat, announced his plans following passage of special session legislation setting an Aug. 28 primary and Nov. 2 general election for the seat.