Chinese investments and rebukes for ‘preaching’ dominate the contentious Casey v. McCormick rematch.

Chinese investments, rebukes for ‘preaching’ take center stage at contentious Casey v. McCormick rematch

Longtime Democratic Pennsylvania Sen. Bob Casey and Republican challenger Dave McCormick squared off in their second Senate debate ahead of Election Day. The debate was marked by intense exchanges over “lies” and Chinese investments. McCormick accused Casey of “preaching” and criticized his record, stating he won’t “take any preaching” from Casey. Casey countered by highlighting McCormick’s investments in a Chinese arms manufacturer and the impact of Chinese fentanyl on the U.S.

McCormick defended his record as Bridgewater Associates’ CEO, citing that all investments were approved by the U.S. government. He also pointed out that Casey, as treasurer of Pennsylvania, had used Bridgewater for investments. The debate covered various topics including the escalating war in the Middle East, abortion, immigration, and the economy. McCormick criticized Casey for not addressing the fentanyl crisis effectively, stating that 116,000 people died from fentanyl last year, equating to “two Vietnams.” The race is considered a close and contentious one, with Casey facing his most difficult re-election effort to date.