Manchin just dealt a death blow to the little that remained of the Democrats’ ambitious agenda. The election almost certainly will make it official. For the next two years, the GOP will be playing offense in Congress.
How should the president react? By creating contrasts and exposing GOP extremism. By appearing to be fair-minded and reasonable in the face of right-wing nihilism. By offering to work with the GOP on issues of mutual interest, but refusing to back down on matters of principle, particularly if his position polls well.
It is a perfect role for Biden. He isn’t a great salesman for his underappreciated accomplishments, but he excels at looking moderate when the rest of the world is going nuts. He is just the president the Democrats need for the next two years.