In the quest to regain control of the U.S. Senate, Pennsylvania Republicans have the candidate they desire. Their hopes are pinned on David McCormick, but his reluctance to officially announce his candidacy is keeping the party in suspense.
Ever since his defeat in last year’s Senate GOP primary, McCormick has hinted at the possibility of seeking the party’s nomination for the U.S. Senate once more, this time to challenge Democratic Senator Bob Casey, who is in his third term. McCormick has been making appearances at local party events, fundraising for Republican candidates, hiring staff, promoting his new book, and participating in conservative podcasts – all activities befitting a candidate, except for the formal declaration of his candidacy.
Vince Galko, a Republican campaign strategist, has expressed the sentiment of many in Pennsylvania, stating, “At this point, if Dave McCormick doesn’t run, it’ll be the biggest head fake in Pennsylvania political history.”
However, McCormick’s hesitancy might be rooted in the fact that he spent a considerable amount of his personal fortune in a crowded and intense primary election, only to narrowly lose. This fiscal commitment is a significant factor to consider.
For a party that has grappled with nominating polarizing and flawed Senate candidates, there is genuine concern in Pennsylvania that the absence of McCormick in the race could lead to the emergence of another controversial candidate who might embarrass the party, much as has happened in the past.
Despite the anticipation, McCormick has not publicly disclosed his decision-making process and has refrained from responding to interview requests.
The Democratic Party has essentially treated McCormick as the de facto GOP nominee, scrutinizing his business record, his stance on abortion rights, and even his place of residence. McCormick’s opponents have portrayed him as a wealthy outsider who lived on Connecticut’s “Gold Coast” during his years at the hedge fund Bridgewater Associates. McCormick, a native of Pennsylvania, maintains that he now resides in Pittsburgh.
Throughout the year, McCormick’s aides have provided shifting timelines for his decision, causing uncertainty in the GOP’s primary field. However, his allies now suggest that a decision is imminent.
McCormick has garnered support from two major Senate GOP donor committees – the National Republican Senatorial Committee and the Senate Leadership Fund – even before formally entering the race.
In recent days, an ally of McCormick has circulated a letter of support featuring prominent party figures, including the state party chair, national committee representatives, and 36 of 67 county party chairs.
Without McCormick in the race, there is concern among party officials about the quality of alternative candidates at this relatively late stage. Sam DeMarco, the Allegheny County GOP chair, emphasized the party’s reliance on McCormick, stating, “At the moment, we have no idea if Dave chose not to run who would step up. But it’s clear that the Republican Party of Pennsylvania is putting its chips on Dave McCormick.”
Republicans are drawn to McCormick due to his impressive resume, substantial resources, and extensive connections in business and politics. He received support from a super PAC with contributions from wealthy donors during his previous Senate run. Moreover, Republicans believe he can appeal to suburban voters and provide stability to the party’s ticket.
However, McCormick may have reservations about running again, given his previous expensive campaign, which ended with him narrowly losing to Dr. Mehmet Oz, who was endorsed by former President Donald Trump.
The Pennsylvania Republican Party faced a humiliating loss in a recent election when Oz was defeated by Democrat John Fetterman by a significant margin. Therefore, Republicans recognize the challenge of unseating Senator Casey, who has strong ties to the state’s Democratic politics.
Another variable is the potential presence of Trump at the top of the GOP ticket, and McCormick’s willingness to share the ticket with him. While McCormick’s stance on this matter remains unclear, there is no indication of any reconciliation between McCormick and Trump, who criticized McCormick during the 2022 primary.
McCormick has hinted that he will not run without a party endorsement in the primary, aiming to avoid another costly intra-party contest. A September 30 state party meeting may offer insight into McCormick’s intentions, as there is speculation that he will seek an endorsement vote there.
Although party leaders favor McCormick, the position of rank-and-file state committee members, including pro-Trump Republicans, on his potential endorsement is uncertain. Regardless, some believe that if McCormick enters the race and no other viable candidate emerges, party members may be inclined to support him.
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