Bob Casey spent last week as a private citizen for the first time in 28 years, marking the beginning of his journey away from the political spotlight.
The Scranton resident and former U.S. senator held positions as state auditor general, later as state treasurer, and then for three terms in the Senate alongside Republicans Arlen Specter and Pat Toomey, and most recently Democrat John Fetterman. Casey was the only Democratic senator to ever see three terms, losing a chance at a fourth term to businessman Dave McCormick by 0.2%. McCormick, a Republican, took office Jan. 3.
Casey developed a reputation as a fierce advocate for the most disenfranchised community members — children, the disabled, seniors and veterans, among them. His name is printed on a long list of powerful legislation as proof of that commitment. Some of that legislation is still working its way toward becoming a law.
In his farewell remarks, he mentioned everyone from the president and other colleagues, to his family members, to the Capitol building policemen, custodial staff and cafeteria workers, requesting their names be entered into record as recognition for their hard work…