Senator Casey Criticizes Biden for Not Helping Teacher in Russia

In the recent US-Russia prisoner exchange that secured the release of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and Marine veteran Paul Whelan, one name notably absent was Marc Fogel, a Pennsylvania teacher currently imprisoned in Russia. Senator Bob Casey (D-Pa.) expressed his disappointment over Fogel's exclusion, highlighting the significant decline in Fogel's health during his incarceration. Fogel was detained in August 2021 for allegedly attempting to enter Russia with a small amount of medical marijuana and subsequently sentenced to 14 years in prison. Senator Casey emphasized the need for the Biden administration to take a more assertive stance in designating Fogel as "unlawfully detained," a designation that could facilitate better access to healthcare and support for him while imprisoned. Casey's remarks came as he faced pressure from constituents and political opponents, including GOP Senate hopeful Dave McCormick, who met with Fogel's mother, Malphine. McCormick underscored the importance of securing a wrongful detention designation for Fogel to ensure he receives necessary medical care. Former President Donald Trump also engaged with Malphine Fogel, promising to advocate for her son's return if elected. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's recent acknowledgment of Fogel as "wrongfully detained" marks a significant shift in the Biden administration's approach to the case. Senator Casey has been vocal in his efforts to negotiate Fogel's release, having introduced a bipartisan resolution that passed unanimously in the Senate earlier this year, indicating a growing urgency around the issue.