Republican Dave McCormick has unseated longtime Democratic Senator Bob Casey in Pennsylvania’s closely watched Senate race, but the final outcome remains uncertain as thousands of ballots are still uncounted.
At a Glance
- Dave McCormick declared victory over incumbent Senator Bob Casey in Pennsylvania’s Senate race
- Casey has not conceded, citing thousands of uncounted ballots across the state
- The race was one of the most expensive Senate elections, with over $300 million spent on ads
- McCormick’s win contributes to the Republican majority in the Senate, potentially giving them at least 53 seats
- Pennsylvania’s role as a key battleground state heightened the race’s national significance
A Nail-Biter Election in the Keystone State
In a stunning turn of events, Republican Dave McCormick has claimed victory in Pennsylvania’s hotly contested Senate race, unseating three-term Democratic incumbent Bob Casey. The race, which attracted national attention and record-breaking campaign spending, has potentially reshaped the political landscape in this crucial swing state.
Despite McCormick’s declaration of victory, Senator Casey has not yet conceded. With the margin razor-thin and thousands of ballots still uncounted, the final outcome remains uncertain. Pennsylvania Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt has called for patience as the vote count continues.
Republican Dave McCormick defeats incumbent Bob Casey in Pennsylvania Senate race https://t.co/t7VPlO5VLD
— POLITICO (@politico) November 7, 2024
A Battle of Political Titans
The race pitted Casey, scion of a prominent Pennsylvania political family, against McCormick, a former hedge fund CEO and military veteran. Both candidates brought significant resources and backing to the campaign, with Casey supported by President Biden and McCormick endorsed by former President Trump.
“He’s a good man. He wants to run a good ship. He’s a smart guy. He was a very successful guy. He’s given up a lot to do this.” – Trump
McCormick focused his campaign on controlling inflation, enhancing border security, reducing crime, and expanding energy production. He also softened his stance on abortion rights, opposing a federal ban and supporting Pennsylvania’s existing law. Casey, meanwhile, emphasized abortion rights, inflation control, and environmental protection.
Implications for the Senate and Beyond
McCormick’s apparent victory contributes to the Republican majority in the Senate, potentially giving them at least 53 seats. This shift in power could have far-reaching consequences for national policy and the upcoming presidential election.
“Beating Casey is earth-shaking for Pennsylvania’s Democratic establishment.” – David McCormick
The outcome in Pennsylvania is particularly significant given the state’s status as a key battleground. Its 20 electoral votes have been pivotal in recent presidential elections, and the Senate race result may be an indicator of shifting political winds in the state.
A Race Too Close to Call?
Despite McCormick’s declaration of victory, the race remains extraordinarily close. The Associated Press called the race with McCormick leading by just 0.5 points, a margin that could trigger an automatic recount under Pennsylvania law.
“We estimate there are at least 100,000 ballots remaining to be adjudicated, including provisional, military, overseas, and Election Day votes. We urge patience as election workers continue to do this important work, especially in contests where the margins are very close.” – Al Schmidt
As the counting continues, both campaigns are closely monitoring the process. The Casey campaign has emphasized the importance of counting every eligible vote, reflecting the deeply held democratic values of the state where the U.S. Constitution was born.
This nail-biter of an election serves as a reminder of Pennsylvania’s crucial role in national politics and the importance of every single vote in shaping the future of our nation. As we await the final results, one thing is clear: the voice of Pennsylvania’s voters will be heard, and it will resonate far beyond the borders of the Keystone State.
Sources:
- Trump-backed PA Senate candidate flips longtime Dem seat red in nail-biter election
- Republican David McCormick flips pivotal Pennsylvania Senate seat, ousts Bob Casey
- Republican Dave McCormick wins Pennsylvania Senate seat in key race
