Manchin's announcement Tuesday ended speculation about whether the popular Democratic governor would forgo the last years of his second term for a chance to serve the last two-plus years of Byrd's term.
The governor's announcement came Tuesday after he and legislative leaders resolved their differences over the succession process.
The legislation calls for an Aug. 28 primary and Nov. 2 general election for the seat.
The winner of that election would take over from Carte Goodwin, Manchin's temporary appointee to the seat. The 36-year-old former chief counsel takes his oath of office Tuesday.
