He was my Senator too but calling him a "Big Government Conservative" is not some liberal media smear. Its an analysis of the record. He supported George Bush's "Compassionate Conservative" agenda. Even before Bush, he was very pro-union and advocated expanding benefits for seniors (both natural Pennsylvania constituencies). Other than some nasty comments about his family (from the likes of Colmes), I don't see these criticisms as illegitimate.
I have family in PA who tell me conservatives there are STILL mad at Santorum for the Specter endorsement. Do you find that true where you are?