In a striking move, vulnerable incumbent Democratic Senator Bob Casey has launched a new campaign ad in Pennsylvania that showcases his unexpected alliances with former President Trump, framing himself as an independent voice amid the current political landscape.
The ad, titled “Bliss,” features a married couple—Marygrace, a Republican, and Joe, a Democrat—who emphasize their differing political views but unite in their praise for Casey. Marygrace states, “Our marriage is pure bliss! But politically, we don’t always see eye to eye—except when it comes to Bob Casey. He’s an independent thinker.” Joe agrees, underscoring Casey’s bipartisan efforts.
The ad highlights Casey’s support for Trump’s trade policies and his staunch defense of fracking against the Biden administration’s regulatory onslaught. “Bob Casey has bucked Biden to protect our jobs in fracking and stood up to China by supporting tariffs,” Marygrace explains. This endorsement of Casey resonates with Pennsylvania voters concerned about job security and energy independence.
As Casey seeks his fourth term, his challenger, Republican Dave McCormick, a combat veteran and businessman, is gaining ground. Recent polls indicate Casey holds a slim lead, but Republican strategists see the ad as a sign of desperation. Elizabeth Gregory, a spokesperson for McCormick, criticized Casey for trying to align himself with Trump after previously voting to impeach him twice. “This is just another sign of a flailing career politician,” she said.
Critics also noted the ad’s omission of Casey’s alignment with Vice President Kamala Harris, especially given her recent campaign appearances in Pennsylvania. GOP state Rep. Russ Diamond remarked, “He’s cozying up to Trump because he knows Kamala is going to lose.”
The Trump campaign weighed in, suggesting that Casey’s newfound affinity for Trump indicates panic among Democrats. Tim Murtaugh, a senior adviser for the Trump campaign, stated, “These Democrats who have opposed Trump at every turn are now trying to embrace him as they face electoral threats.”
As the campaign heats up, Casey’s strategy to distance himself from the Biden administration and pivot toward Trump may signal an awareness of shifting voter sentiments in Pennsylvania. Whether this approach will resonate with voters remains to be seen, but it highlights the growing importance of independent voices in the upcoming election.