Casey lost to Rendell in the dem primary in 2002. Dem primary voters are the looney left and ultra abortion-on-demand types, and they were for Rendell, big-time. This is why they were worried about hafer in the dem primary, despite her reputation as a shrew and not a good fund-raiser, she may have won the primary, but would have lost the general to Santorum.
Everyone is ready for Casey to move to DC. HOLD ON... it is 18 months until the actual election. Casey is not bright, all you have to do is watch him in an interview to know this. He has a name, and Rendell's corrupt dollars behind him, but that is all.
Casey is a hack. Look for the union goons to be for him, big-time as well. Rick can beat him. Look for a vicious campaign though.
One good thing about Casey being in the race is that abortion is off the table for the election. The race will be a referendum on the economy and President Bush' approval rating in the Keystone State. With job growth improving and freedom spreading through the Middle East, it could give a big boast to Santorum, especially in the Philly suburbs. The Casey vs. Santorum showdown will be decided in the Philly burbs.