PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — In a profession that often rewards bombast over substance, Bob Casey dared to be soft-spoken and imperturbable. And that is how he approached his final speech in the Senate Wednesday.
“I begin with an expression of deep, abiding gratitude to the people of Pennsylvania who conferred upon me the honor of serving them in three statewide public offices,” he said.
Casey, who spent nearly 30 years in politics, beginning as Pennsylvania Auditor General in 1996, lost his bid for a fourth term to Republican David McCormick in the November election.
He said he is counting his blessings, as his mother always instructed him to do, proceeded to thank scores of people and recounted legislative achievements, like the ABLE Act, which allows disabled people to save money without losing benefits, as well as the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, the Global Food Security Act and stronger safeguards against campus sexual assault.
“I’m proud of the work we’ve done together on behalf of the people of Pennsylvania, to fight for our children, our seniors, people with disabilities, and our workers,” he said.
But he also warned colleagues of impending challenges. Most pointedly, trade with China, an issue on which he accused McCormick of being weak.
“China is not just a competitor, it’s an economic adversary. I’ve often said, ‘When China cheats, Pennsylvania loses jobs,’” Casey said.
He also urged his colleagues to revive the child tax credit — a measure that reduced childhood poverty by 40% — and to continue to support Ukraine.
“Abandoning them now undermines freedom-loving people all over the world.”
Casey ended on an upbeat note, saying he will continue to do his part to serve as a citizen and a Pennsylvanian.
“Serving in the Senate has been the honor of a lifetime. Thank you. God bless you. I yield the floor.”