Dave McCormick, the Republican candidate for the Senate in Pennsylvania, is striking out at Democratic incumbent Sen. Bob Casey, claiming that Casey’s inaction regarding border security is linked to the soaring fentanyl overdose rates affecting the state. A recent advertisement showcases Sheriff Jim Ott from Blair County, who reflects on the tragic loss of his son due to a fentanyl overdose, expressing that if the border had been secure, his son might still be alive. He emphasizes the need to eliminate "weak politicians" like Casey who he believes are responsible for this ongoing crisis.

As the political landscape shifts with Labor Day behind us and the presidential election nearing, Republican strategists hope that voter attention will increasingly focus on their candidate, despite McCormick trailing Casey in polls. In a recent Quinnipiac University poll, Casey was ahead with 52% support compared to McCormick's 44%. According to analyst Tim Malloy, McCormick faces an uphill battle due to limited name recognition and the popularity of Casey, although some polls indicate he is beginning to close the gap.

The significance of immigration as a key campaign issue in Pennsylvania is highlighted by recent polling, where 16% of voters identified it as their top concern, following the economy at 39%. The dynamics of the presidential race could also influence the Senate election, as Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris are reportedly tied in polls within the state. McCormick may benefit if Trump captures support among Pennsylvania voters.

In response to the allegations regarding Casey’s immigration record, his campaign spokesperson, Kate Smart, defended the senator, stating that he has been actively collaborating with law enforcement to combat fentanyl trafficking and has implemented bipartisan sanctions against Chinese fentanyl producers. Smart also pointed to McCormick's investments in a Chinese pharmaceutical company linked to fentanyl production, arguing that McCormick's previous leadership position with Bridgewater Associates contradicts his criticism of Casey.

The Drug Enforcement Administration has confirmed that illicit fentanyl is produced in clandestine labs and smuggled into the U.S. from Mexico, which has heavily contributed to the rise in opioid overdose deaths, thus framing the ongoing debate around border security and drug trafficking in a broader context.