An October 27, 2006, news release by the Catholic League is entitled, "Bob Casey is a Fraud on Abortion." The Catholic League reached this conclusion after an October 26 interview with the Associated Press in which the Pennsylvania Democrat is quoted, "I'm pro-life and that means that I support initiatives which would reduce the number of abortions."

Sorry, Bob. But "pro-life" really means wanting to eliminate elective abortions, not just "reduce the number." When Bill Clinton trotted out that "safe, legal, and rare" line years ago, few would seriously deny that he was pro-choice.

Casey also added that he wanted "to see more of an emphasis on what brings people together rather than what tears people apart." Hmmm. Very "Clinton-esque," some would say.

Bob Casey's dad, Gov. Robert P. Casey, Sr., was a genuine pro-lifer and a man of action against abortion; he clashed with his own party on the issue. But at BobCasey.com, outside a number of reproduced news articles and the text of one speech, the word "abortion" is practically invisible on his site. (Meanwhile, at Sen. Santorum web site, Rick's record of opposing abortion can easily be found (here, for example). It seems Sen. Santorum is closer to Casey Sr. on the abortion issue than the son is.)

Just two weeks ago, the Washington Post characterized Casey as "against abortion." It also reported, "As a state official, Casey proved to be a traditional Democrat on most issues, but, like his father, he was an ardent foe of abortion." The Post, however, failed to provide any examples explaining how Casey has been an "ardent foe."

Casey has also reportedly received $170,000 from the liberal MoveOn.org, although the organization has a strong record of opposing pro-life candidates.

Is Bob Casey, Jr. still a genuine pro-life candidate? Thursday's AP interview, along with the Catholic League's reaction, make that a fair question. Will the MSM follow up on this?