Joe Manchin (I-WV)

Brief Biography

Joe Manchin is the Independent U.S. Senator from West Virginia, a position he has held since 2010. Born on August 24, 1947, he has a background in business and public service, including prior roles as Governor of West Virginia from 2005 to 2010 and as West Virginia Secretary of State. His legislative priorities include energy policy, infrastructure development, economic growth, and national security. In the 119th Congress, he serves as a member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, where he advocates for balanced military funding, veteran support, and bipartisan approaches to defense challenges.

Contact Information

• Website: https://www.manchin.senate.gov/

• Washington, DC Office:

  • Address: 306 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510

  • Phone: (202) 224-3954

  • Fax: (202) 228-0002

  • Email/Contact Form: https://www.manchin.senate.gov/contact-joe/email-joe (requires ZIP code verification for constituents; non-constituents can use general form or mail)

• District Offices:

  • Charleston Office: 900 Kanawha Boulevard East, Charleston, WV 25301; Phone: (304) 342-5855; Fax: (304) 343-7144

  • Martinsburg Office: 261 Aikens Center, Suite 305, Martinsburg, WV 25404; Phone: (304) 262-9285; Fax: (304) 262-9288

  • Fairmont Office: 48 Donley Street, Suite 504, Fairmont, WV 26554; Phone: (304) 367-1862; Fax: (304) 367-1865

• Other Notes: Manchin's independent status and focus on energy and economic issues inform his support for defense appropriations that align with national priorities. His office welcomes input on security and veteran-related matters. Social media: @Sen_JoeManchin on X (Twitter).

Sample Letter

[This letter is customizable; users can copy, paste, and personalize it for email, print, or mail. Include your name, address, and contact details to verify legitimacy.]

Subject: Support for Amendment to Enhance USMC Rifle Marksmanship Training in FY2027 Appropriations Act

Dear Senator Manchin,

I am writing to express my strong support for an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2027 Department of War Appropriations Act that would mandate a minimum of 3,120 rounds of annual rifle training for every United States Marine. As a signer of the #morebulletspeez petition, which has garnered widespread backing from Marine families, veterans, and concerned citizens, I urge you to consider including this provision in the bill during subcommittee markup.

This amendment addresses a critical readiness gap, particularly for the approximately 118,000 Marines in support and non-infantry roles who often receive fewer than 400 rounds per year. By allocating $235 million—$75 million for Operation and Maintenance, Marine Corps (including rifle sustainment such as barrel replacements) and $160 million for Procurement of Ammunition, Navy and Marine Corps—it ensures all Marines uphold the "every Marine a rifleman" principle without redundancy for combat-oriented positions. The proposal includes flexible scheduling and a policy directive for the Commandant to update Marine Corps Order 3574.2M, promoting efficiency and accountability.

As a member of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, your leadership is essential in prioritizing such investments in our military's preparedness. I respectfully request your support for this amendment to strengthen the Marine Corps' capabilities.

Thank you for your service and consideration. I look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

[Your Full Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State, ZIP Code]

[Your Email]

[Your Phone Number]

[Petition Signer ID or Note: "Signer of #morebulletspeez Petition"]