Ex-Governor Larry Hogan of Maryland Declares Candidacy for U.S. Senate

Larry Hogan, the former Governor of Maryland and a prominent Republican critic of former President Donald Trump, has announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate in Maryland. In a video posted on social media, Hogan emphasized the need for leadership willing to prioritize the country over party lines, drawing on his experience as a two-term governor in a predominantly blue state.

Hogan, echoing his father's principled stand during the Nixon era, highlighted his commitment to transcending divisive politics. He stressed that a single party alone cannot address the challenges the nation faces, calling for leaders who can stand up to both parties and recognize the importance of collaboration.

As the filing deadline for the Senate race approached, Hogan emerged as the frontrunner for the Republican nomination, potentially making the contest to replace retiring Democratic Senator Ben Cardin more competitive. Despite Maryland being a Democratic stronghold, Hogan's previous electoral success in the state positions him as a viable candidate.

The Democratic field includes candidates like Representative David Trone and Prince George's County Executive Angela Alsobrooks. Trone, who has spent over $19 million on ads, touts endorsements from numerous House colleagues, including Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. The Democratic primary has also seen endorsements for Alsobrooks from prominent figures like Governor Wes Moore and Senators Chris Van Hollen, Cory Booker, Kirsten Gillibrand, and Raphael Warnock.

Democrats are framing the Senate race as crucial for preserving abortion rights, pointing to Hogan's stance on the issue. Hogan, despite facing an uphill battle, could compel Democrats to pay closer attention to the race, especially given the challenging Senate map they currently navigate.

Hogan's unique electoral success as a Republican in Maryland, winning a second term in 2018, distinguishes him within his party. Presenting himself as a centrist Republican resistant to Trump's influence, Hogan previously endorsed Nikki Haley over Trump for the 2024 GOP presidential nomination. His recent departure from a leadership role with No Labels, a bipartisan group, has fueled speculation about his political future.

In a recent interview, Hogan expressed concerns about the future of the Republican Party under Trump's continued influence. His candidacy for the Senate adds an intriguing dimension to the GOP landscape, with seven other Republicans already filed for the race. One of them, retired Brig. Gen. John Teichert, welcomed Hogan to the race, emphasizing the momentum he has built in his own campaign since October.