Ex-Gov. Casey Opts Not to Run Against Clinton
WASHINGTON — Citing health concerns, former Pennsylvania Gov. Robert P. Casey said Tuesday he had reluctantly abandoned plans to challenge President Clinton in next year’s Democratic primaries.
Casey’s decision drew quick praise from the White House and the Democratic National Committee chairman. Casey had been the only potential challenger to begin organizing, although two-time Democratic candidate Jesse Jackson has not ruled out running.
Casey last month formed a campaign committee and recruited veteran Republican activist Jeffrey Bell as his chief strategist.
But Casey, 63, who underwent a rare heart-liver transplant in 1993, said his busy travel schedule had caused doubts about his ability to wage a vigorous effort.
“I am not convinced that I could, at this time, sustain the extraordinary energy level required by a national campaign,†Casey said.
His anger at Clinton dates back to the 1992 Democratic convention, when Clinton denied Casey’s request that he be allowed to address the delegates about abortion.
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