Former Secretary of State Madeleine K. Albright last night helped to raise about $100,000 for the U.S. Senate candidacy of Democratic state Treasurer Robert P. Casey Jr. at a Philadelphia event hosted by nine female Senate Democrats who described themselves as "pragmatic" and "progressive."

The invitation to the event with Ms. Albright, who served in former President Bill Clinton's administration, was accompanied by a letter from the nine that praised Mr. Casey for his advocacy for "children, the elderly and everyday Americans who don't have a voice."

Mr. Casey hopes to spotlight events that show support among women as the May Democratic primary draws closer. Both Mr. Casey and incumbent Republican Sen. Rick Santorum oppose abortion, while Mr. Casey's two Democratic primary opponents -- Chuck Pennacchio and Alan M. Sandals -- support abortion rights.

In recent months, some Pennsylvania women who favor abortion rights have expressed dismay that Mr. Casey is so far ahead of Mr. Pennacchio and Mr. Sandals -- both in the polls and in raising money -- because they feel that the likely Casey-Santorum matchup will limit their choices on abortion rights issues.

Yesterday's event was closed to the press, but officials at Mr. Casey's campaign were quick to point out that many of the organizers and attendees favor abortion rights. And the letter from the Democratic senators urged potential guests to give their "full support" to Mr. Casey's campaign, as part of a Democratic push to regain majority control of the Senate. For a $1,000 contribution, guests could attend a "VIP" reception with Ms. Albright; other supporters paid $250 to $500 to attend a more public event.