Other Columns by Paul M. Weyrich
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The first rule in politics is always to have your own base solid. Because of the Toomey race, Santorum has some problems with his own base. If he fails to acknowledge and correct this it could cost him the election. Beyond that, Santorum can't let Casey get by with a moderate to conservative image. Casey's party in Pennsylvania is more liberal than most. If Santorum could tie Casey to the positions of the Democrat Party it likely would have two effects. Either Casey supports those liberal Democrat positions, providing an incentive for Republicans to re-elect Santorum; or Casey repudiates those positions, dampening support for him among his own party faithful. Some observers, perhaps overlooking both the dilemma of choices facing Casey and President Bush's popularity, consider the race is Casey's to lose, summed up by what pro-lifer said to me last week: "Aren't we lucky in Pennsylvania this time. We have two such nice, energetic young men running for the Senate. We can't lose either way." It may not be that simple.

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Paul M. Weyrich is the Chairman and CEO of the Free Congress Foundation.

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Note -- The opinions expressed in this column are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions, views, and/or philosophy of GOPUSA.

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