Democratic Sen. Casey re-elected to second term

PITTSBURGH — Democratic U.S. Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania has won re-election to a second term.

Casey capitalized on high name recognition and strong Democratic voter turnout Tuesday to counter a huge spending advantage by Republican businessman Tom Smith, a tea party favorite.

Casey is a former state treasurer and auditor general, and son of the late former governor, Robert P. Casey. He handily beat Republican Rick Santorum in 2006 for a second term.

Casey was an early supporter of President Barack Obama and voted for Obama's signature policies, including his health care law and stimulus bill. Smith had been heavily critical of those votes and had pledged to vote to repeal the health care law.

"My congratulations tonight goes to Senator Casey.  While we disagree on some things, we both care deeply for this country and believe America's best days are ahead of her," said Smith.  "My family and I are humbled and grateful for the support of millions of Pennsylvanians.  And though we fell short tonight, we will continue to advocate for the principles of limited government, fiscal responsibility and individual liberty."

U.S. Senator Pat Toomey released the following statement congratulating Senator Bob Casey on his re-election:
 
"Congratulations to Senator Casey on winning a second term tonight. While Senator Casey and I don't agree on everything, we have worked together on a bipartisan basis over the past two years to help Pennsylvania. With the election now behind us, I look forward to working with him and the rest of our state's congressional delegation on the many challenges we face, including addressing our serious fiscal situation and creating the job growth Pennsylvanians deserve."

The Associated Press contributed to this story.

WPXI