Meaning: The quote is from Robert Casey, a prominent American politician who served as the Governor of Pennsylvania from 1987 to 1995. He was known for his stance on abortion and his efforts to challenge the Democratic Party's position on the issue. The quote reflects his call for the party to be more open to diverse viewpoints and to move away from a strict adherence to a pro-choice stance in order to foster greater unity and consensus.

Robert Casey was a Democrat, but he was also a pro-life advocate, which put him at odds with the party's prevailing position on abortion rights. Despite being a member of the Democratic Party, Casey's pro-life stance led to significant tensions and conflicts within the party, particularly during his tenure as governor and his subsequent political career. He believed that the Democratic Party's unwavering support for abortion rights was alienating many voters, especially those with more conservative views on the issue.

In the quote, Casey emphasizes the importance of open debate and discussion within the party, suggesting that a rigid adherence to a pro-choice stance serves to exclude and alienate a significant portion of the population. He advocates for a broader national consensus on the issue of abortion, implying that the party's current position is too narrow and divisive.

Casey's call for openness to debate and a move away from a "lock-step litmus test" reflects his belief that the party should not be beholden to a single issue or a specific ideological stance. He sought to promote a more inclusive and diverse approach that would allow for a range of perspectives on the abortion issue within the Democratic Party. This stance aligns with his broader political philosophy, which emphasized the importance of representing a wide range of viewpoints and finding common ground on contentious issues.

Throughout his political career, Casey faced resistance and criticism from within his own party due to his pro-life stance. His efforts to challenge the party's position on abortion and advocate for a more inclusive approach were met with significant pushback. However, he remained steadfast in his beliefs and continued to push for a more open and diverse dialogue within the Democratic Party.

In summary, Robert Casey's quote reflects his commitment to fostering open debate and discussion within the Democratic Party, particularly on the issue of abortion. His call for a departure from a rigid pro-choice stance and a move towards a broader national consensus demonstrates his belief in the importance of inclusivity and diversity of perspectives within the party. Despite facing challenges and resistance, Casey remained dedicated to advocating for a more inclusive approach to the abortion issue within the Democratic Party.