Republicans Rejoice as Two-Term Governor Larry Hogan Announces He Will Run for Senate in Deep Blue Maryland

Isaac SchorrFeb 9th, 2024, 2:26 pm
 

Republicans are rejoicing over former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan’s (R) announcement that he will run for Senate in his deep blue state.

In a video released on X, Hogan appealed to his bipartisan credentials.

“My fellow Marylanders, you know me. For eight years, we proved that the toxic politics that divide our nation need not divide our state. We overcame unprecedented challenges, cut taxes eight years in a row, balanced the budget and created a record surplus. And we did it all by finding common ground for the common good,” he said, adding:

This is not just about the differences between the right and the left. This is about the difference between right and wrong. And this isn’t just your typical fight between Democrats and Republicans. It’s more important than that. This is a fight for Maryland and America’s future, and that is a fight worth fighting.

Hogan served two terms as the governor of Maryland — which has swung toward the Democratic nominee by 33 and 26 points in the last two presidential elections — between 2015 and 2023. The former governor bested his Democratic opponent in 2018 by nearly 12%.

Understandably, then, a variety of Republicans reacted excitedly to the news.

“I would pay a significant amount for a ticket to watch Chuck Schumer’s face right now,” mused Republican operative Josh Holmes.

“Huge for @NRSC. Great recruiting by @SteveDaines.@LarryHogan is only the second Republican governor ever reelected in Maryland’s history. He’s going to put up a hell of a fight, and he’ll be a great Senator,” declared Ward Baker, another GOP campaign vet.

And Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) called him the best recruit of the 2024 election cycle.

The University of Virginia’s Crystal Ball moved its rating for the Maryland Senate race from a “Safe” seat for Democrats to a “Likely” win for them.

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