An outside group has launched a television ad in Pennsylvania targeting the upcoming recount of the state's 2024 Senate race between Republican Dave McCormick and Democratic incumbent Sen. Bob Casey. McCormick currently holds a slim lead of less than 1% over Casey.
The ad, funded by the 'Fair Elections Fund,' a Pittsburgh-based nonprofit, questions Casey's decision not to concede the race. It draws parallels between Casey's current stance and his past calls for accepting election outcomes, particularly referencing his statements regarding Donald Trump in 2020.
The ad accuses Casey and the Democrats of being sore losers and disrespecting democracy by pushing for an unnecessary recount using taxpayer dollars. The group behind the ad has disclosed limited information about its funding sources.
Pennsylvania witnessed significant ad spending during the 2024 election cycle, surpassing $1.2 billion since the beginning of 2023. The state remains a focal point for political campaigns even after Election Day, with the Senate race results still pending.
While provisional and mail ballots are still being tallied, unofficial results indicate that the Senate race is within the margin to trigger an automatic recount under state law. McCormick currently maintains a lead of fewer than 30,000 votes, a margin that has narrowed since election night.
Although no official projection has been made in the race, McCormick, a former hedge fund executive, has participated in new senator orientation activities in Washington, DC. Sources predict that Republicans will secure the Senate majority and retain control of the House, completing a sweep of the federal government.
With Republicans expected to hold at least 52 Senate seats, the outcome of the Pennsylvania race will be crucial. Counties in the state must commence the recount by November 20, aiming to conclude the process by November 26 and report the results promptly.
