Toomey, Casey to Vote Against Obama Nominee

PoliticsPA reports: “Senator Bob Casey declared that he intends to vote against President Obama’s choice to head the Civil Rights Division, potentially imperiling the nomination. Debo Adegbile, who worked for the NAACP Legal Defense Fund from 2001 to 2013, was nominated by the Obama Administration to serve in the Department of Justice and led the Civil Rights Division.”

 “I respect that our system of law ensures the right of all citizens to legal representation no matter how heinous the crime,” Casey said in a statement. “At the same time, it is important that we ensure that Pennsylvanians and citizens across the country have full confidence in their public representatives – both elected and appointed.”

Sen. Pat Toomey held a conference call with reporters on Monday to further lay out his rationale for opposing Adegbile’s nomination, referring to him as one of the “extremist, radical” people seeking to defend Abu-Jamal. Toomey also repeatedly mentioned Casey’s opposition.

Adegbile needs just 51 votes for confirmation, but Casey’s decision could give other Democrats cover to break with the president on his nominee.